Abstract
The prevalence of unintentional injury and violent behavior among school aged youth in Boston compared to the rest of the country is quite similar. And in the past decade, in spite of attempts both locally and nationally to stymie these behaviors, there has been no change in prevalence. Moreover, such behaviors are the leading cause of death and disability among youth and adults in the United States. This paper will discuss the strategies that have been employed by Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Boston, MA in response to this trend and will focus on high-risk youth, especially those involved with gangs.
Highlights
Youth living in areas that are affected by violence and high rates of crime are more susceptible to engage in the types of behaviors that cause unintentional injuries and violence among youth (Ingoldsby, & Shaw, 2002; Lansford, et al,. 2007)
The psychological and emotional effects of witnessing violence reinforce a tendency towards committing those same violent behaviors (Green, & Berkowitz, 1976; Lovaas, 1961; Osofsky, 1999; Margolin, & Gordis, 2000)
While our program may not be unique, the leadership of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church (PHBC) has recognized the fact that young people know young people best
Summary
Youth living in areas that are affected by violence and high rates of crime are more susceptible to engage in the types of behaviors that cause unintentional injuries and violence among youth (Ingoldsby, & Shaw, 2002; Lansford, et al,. 2007). After a deadly incident at the funeral of a young homicide victim, the African American clergymen in the affected neighborhoods decided to take action and create a crisis response organization to address the city’s gang-related crime and the related youth violence and homicides. They created the Boston TenPoint Coalition in 1992 and began streamlining the collective efforts of the community. In the precarious days that followed, Reverend Culpepper fasted for forty days and prayed He resolved to continue the work he had begun with Adam and the neighborhood gang to create a Peace Plan for the community. It will conclude with planning details to realize the workforce development program
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