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Changemakers Forum:
Entry:One Vision One Life - Intervening in Gang Violence on the Streets
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I am a teacher in an urban school district and was encouraged to see a program such as this exists, and quite close to my state. I am wondering about possible replication of this program as you stated you want to see this successful anywhere gang related issues are a problem. We are currently losing many young men, particularly African American men and boys in the streets. I commend you on this innovative idea...it is truly unique and I imagine very effectual. I would be interested to see more regarding the national network you discussed and the statewide network.
If I may ask, how do other agencies respond to working with your staff who have criminal records? From the description, it seems some of them may have substantial criminal histories, if not violent offenses - is there any reluctance by other agencies, institutions, etc. to work with your staff?
I am a teacher in an urban school district and was encouraged to see a program such as this exists, and quite close to my state. I am wondering about possible replication of this program as you stated you want to see this successful anywhere gang related issues are a problem. We are currently losing many young men, particularly African American men and boys in the streets. I commend you on this innovative idea...it is truly unique and I imagine very effectual. I would be interested to see more regarding the national network you discussed and the statewide network.
If I may ask, how do other agencies respond to working with your staff who have criminal records? From the description, it seems some of them may have substantial criminal histories, if not violent offenses - is there any reluctance by other agencies, institutions, etc. to work with your staff?
Hi Samantha, Your violence intervention methods seem to be having a big impact. Congratulations and great work. Its great that you are able to step in before problems get to out of hand. I'm not quite sure I understand how you do it. How do you find out about the conflicts and how do you get to the scene before the violence breaks out? Also, you mention that you reach out to those at rick with services and jobs. What is your job placement rate of the individuals that you work with? Thank you!
Dana Frasz
Changemakers
Thank you so much for your question Dana.
Our unique model puts us in the position to learn about targeted violence before it occurs. We have Area Managers (professionals), Community Coordinators (have a history of gang involvement, but have made great strides toward productive living), and we have Violence Interupters (these are our people who are more connected to the street). Most of our Community Coordinators and Violence Interupters have attained a certain status "on the street" that would not make much sense to someone who had not lived in that environment. But often it is the men who were the most viscious or most involved in narcotics that gained credibility on the street. Because our men command respect in their neighborhoods, they are able to now translate that into a positive respect. Community Coordinators bring us the information regarding conflicts. The gang members trust our staff - that is what has made us able to orchestrate truces between rival gangs.
For the job placement rate, are you interested in how many placements we secured or in those who retained the job (and if so for 3, 6, or 9 months?)
Thank you so much for your interest in One Vision One Life. If anything I have said spurs more questions, please send them through!
Samantha