FY 2009 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 coordinates 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 Hamilton Police Department will use the fiscal year 2009 G.R.E.A.T. funds to deliver the elementary, middle school, and summer components. The program was originally implemented in the city in 1994, and continues with the core curriculum being taught in four schools. Through the grant, the police department anticipates reaching an additional 1,400 students, comprising four fourth grade classes and highest risk youth at two middle schools. The summer component will be provided in collaboration with the Boys and Girls Club and will involve community service projects and weekly field trips with police officers.

CA/NCF