Street Violence Prevention

Healthy Neighborhood Project Action Teams have developed action plans that included violence prevention objectives for the last ten years. Actions have ranged from lobbying for youth activities located in the neighborhoods, to advocacy for street lights and speed bumps to discourage illegal activities, to parent training on recognizing early gang behavior in children.

In 2006, the Public Health Outreach, Education and Collaboration (PHOEC) program conducted some research into the current public health approach to addressing street violence. Their subsequent report facilitated internal CCHS discussions about how to be an effective partner in preventing street violence.

A cross-divisional work group developed a conceptual model for prevention; documented key CCHS programs most involved in preventing the problem, and developed ten recommendations for CCHS action. PHOEC staff interviewed nearly 30 community leaders in West County and incorporated their input into these recommendations. In April 2007, the cross-divisional team was expanded to include managers from Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Services, Clinic Services and Public Health. The team began to determine how to carry out the recommendations, with a focus initially in West County. They have investigated promising public health-related practices, organized resource roundtables, hosted other educational and training sessions and provided input to Senior Department leadership on policy and systems issues.

At the neighborhood level, The North Richmond Action Team selected violence prevention focused on youth as it's top priority, in response to the recent community violence in West County. The team sponsored a Youth Leadership Academy providing six weeks of training to North Richmond youth in Summer 2007, in a collaborative effort with Contra Costa College, Eco Village and other CBOS.

Also of interest

Street Violence Prevention

Links