Discussions on how best to support youth involved in gangs can be difficult as this is a very often misunderstood population. Children seek out gangs for many reasons whether it is intergenerational influences with kids being raised in a culture of violence, trauma from community violence, or a search for connection and stability.

“This is a group of kids being pushed aside based on public perception of their choices. The community needs to realize that it is not exclusively criminality but also linked to poverty and trauma,” said Cheryl Perez, a Program Coordinator with FamilyStrong. It is Cheryl’s job to ensure that Denver’s youth get connected with the individualized services that they need to be successful and prevent future involvement in the juvenile justice system.

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