NCJ Number
117731
Date Published
1988
Length
60 pages
Annotation
Wisconsin's Racine Community Collaboration Project (RCCP), initiated in 1985, explored the use of a coordinated approach to preventing youth gang and delinquency problems in Racine and attempted to develop a comprehensive plan for improving youth-related programs and services.
Abstract
It was determined that more coordinated efforts are needed among community institutions dealing with youth. The establishment of a youth resource office led to the networking of youth activities in Racine. Three youth resource coordinators were employed during the project period, and youth resource coordination on an interagency basis was beneficial. Short-term goals associated with youth employment were met by employing several youth at community centers and the University of Wisconsin. Employment, however, was not addressed adequately by the project, particularly in relation to gang involvement and teenage pregnancy. It was determined that special youth employment emphasis should be placed in the areas of computer programming, food services, weatherization retailing, and industrial maintenance. In addition to the evaluation component of RCCP, a followup study of the juvenile justice process in Racine was conducted that included interviews with gang members and juvenile justice personnel. Most interviewees saw the gang situation as a problem, although there was debate as to how gang members should be dealt with. The followup study findings indicated the need for continued coordination among public and private youth programs and the importance of developing a gang crisis intervention program. A comprehensive listing of RCCP conclusions and recommendations is provided. References.