NCJ Number
98242
Date Published
1985
Length
140 pages
Annotation
This monograph explains the benefits to youths and to the community of involving youths aged 10 to 20 in community crime prevention efforts and gives examples of 29 effective programs located throughout the United States.
Abstract
A description of community crime prevention covers its history, its basic components, its costs, and its benefits. A discussion of the potential of youth emphasizes their need for opportunities to grow and learn decisionmaking through experience and their capacities as community resources. Features common to successful programs are highlighted and include involvement of adult mentors, identification of and agreement on local problems and solutions, and provision of training. Additional factors are a supportive adult community climate, constructive relationships between adults and youths, and opportunities for youths to run the program and provide services. A discussion of potential problems -- which are mostly problems with adults and adult institutions -- emphasizes that they can be prevented or minimized by careful planning and the exercise of tolerance and common sense. Steps involved in starting a program are outlined. Programs described include efforts located in core city areas, suburbs, rural settings, and small towns. Diverse activities, age levels, and target populations are also included. The 29 program profiles give the address and contact person, program components, training, and funding. Photographs are included.