Carol Stream G.R.E.A.T. Program

The Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) program is a life-skills competency program designed to provide students with the skills they need to avoid gang pressure and youth violence. G.R.E.A.T.'s violence prevention curriculum helps students develop values and practice behaviors that will assist them to avoid destructive activities. The G.R.E.A.T. program coordinates with federal, regional, state and local agencies, as well as individuals from community and civic groups. The goal of the G.R.E.A.T. program is to train law enforcement officers in a school-based curriculum in which the officers provide instruction to school-aged children in life skill competencies, gang awareness, and anti-violence techniques. Training in the core G.R.E.A.T. program is provided to officers from any state or local law enforcement agency.

The Carol Stream Police Department will continue to teach the middle school curriculum to 6th grade students. G.R.E.A.T. officers expect to serve approximately 380 youth in the classroom. In addition, officers will coordinate with teachers and monitor classes to identify and work with high-risk youth. The summer program, called P.A.C.T. (Police and Children Together), is a week long camp that targets approximately 30 at-risk youth. The goal of this program is to reinforce the benefits of healthy lifestyles, conflict resolution, and team work. Youth will participate in physical fitness and team building activities and complete a community service project. The program will continue to collaborate with the schools, community organizations, and other law enforcement agencies.

CA/NCF