LEARN ABOUT GANGS>>>

SHARPEN YOUR SKILLS AS A PARENT>>>

HOW TO KEEP (OR PUT) GANGS OUT>>>

Everyone (except gang members) wants a gang-free community. Parents stand to lose the most -the well being or even the life of a child -if gangs take or keep hold. But gangs are often violent and intimidating. What can you do in the face of this?

First, develop positive alternatives. Are there after-school and weekend activities kids can enjoy? Can the school offer its facilities? Can parents organize clubs or sports? Can older kids tutor or mentor younger ones? Can the kids themselves help with ideas?

Second, talk with other parents. For one thing, you'll find out what everyone else's parent really said. For another, you can support each other and share knowledge that will help spot problems sooner than you can on your own.

Third, work with police and other agencies. Report suspicious activity, set up a Neighborhood Watch or a community patrol; let the police know about gang graffiti, get (and share with other parents) the facts on the gang problem in your community, find out what local services - nonprofit as well as government -will work with communities against gangs.

Fourth, get organized against the gang organization. Use your neighborhood association or a new group, Get help from a variety of sources right in you community, Try these kinds of people in addition to the police, priest or minister, family counselor, community association, school counselor or principal, athletic coach, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCA / YWCA, Scouts, drug abuse prevention groups, youth-serving agencies, and community centers - just to name a few.