FY 2008 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 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 city of Brockton will use the 2008 G.R.E.A.T. funds to offer the middle school and families components. Approximately 1,2000 youth in middle school and junior high schools will be taught by four G.R.E.A.T. officers. Once the officers are trained in the families curriculum, the city will work with St. Edith Stein Church and the local Boys & Girls Club to host the families component. The city anticipates reaching 35 to 40 families. Referrals may come from the Boys and Girls Club, the church, or Brockton Public School counselors. Award funds will be used to support overtime costs, supplies, travel to the G.R.E.A.T. national conference, and other costs associated with implementing the program.

CA/NCF