Chronic Exposure to Violence and Poverty: Interventions That Work for Youth

Adolescents who are chronically exposed to violence and poverty respond with rage, distrust, and hopelessness. Successful programs for these youth include nine essential elements: street outreach and referral; needs and interest assessments; provisions for supportive, personal relationships with adults; availability of role models; peer group discussions; family interventions; neighborhood projects; education and job preparedness training; and program objectives. Neighborhood youth centers should engage youth in program planning and program operation. Success cannot be achieved without a deeply ingrained faith that our young people can be resourceful and energetic agents of constructive and productive change.