Gang Involvement

Youth may join gangs to find belonging and connection, and they often get a sense of acceptance, recognition and status in gangs. Boys & Girls Clubs of America has a long history of helping at-risk and gang-involved youth through its Delinquency Prevention Initiative, its Gang Prevention and Gang Intervention programs. Through these initiatives, BGCA works with the community to reach out to youth at risk of becoming involved or already involved in gang activity. Programs connect youth to positive adults, peers and activities and help them change their attitudes, lifestyles and behaviors. Talk to youth development professionals at your local Club to find out more about these programs in your community.

Youth Violence

Violent acts among youth range from bullying and fighting to serious injury or death. Young people at risk of committing violent acts are those who have a history of aggressive behavior, poor behavioral control, involvement with delinquent peers or gangs, antisocial beliefs and attitudes or exposure to violence and conflict in the family. Other risk factors for youth include uninvolved or inconsistent parenting or overly harsh or authoritarian parenting.