G.R.E.A.T. Gang Resistance Education and Training

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 curricula help students develop values and practice behaviors that will help them avoid destructive activities. G.R.E.A.T. program staff coordinate project activities with federal, regional, state, and local agencies, as well as individuals from community and civic groups. The goal of the program is to train criminal justice professionals to deliver a school-based curriculum that teaches life-skills competencies, gang awareness, and violence-avoidance techniques.

The Conroe Independent School District (CISD) Police Department will utilize their FY 2008 G.R.E.A.T. award to continue the middle/junior high school, elementary school, and summer camp components. The CISD is the largest school district within Montgomery County, Texas and is experiencing an increase in gang-related activity. Through the Police Activities League (PAL) and G.R.E.A.T., the grantee plans to reach over 4,500 students through the various components. The summer program will target approximately 400 underprivileged at-risk students through two camps (one for 5th/6th graders and one for 7th/8th graders) designed to reinforce the life skills and safety education taught during the year, while engaging in fun recreational and athletic outings. Grant funds will be used for personnel costs, travel expenses for staff to attend the annual conference and two officers to attend the GREAT Instructor Certification class, supplies, and other costs necessary for the completion of the program.

CA/NCF