Evaluating the Los Angeles Gang Reduction and Youth Development Program from a Qualitative Perspective  

• In Event: The Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) Program in the City of Los Angeles 

Abstract

The City of Los Angeles Gang Reduction and Youth Development Office (GRYD) oversees a Comprehensive Strategy that involves the provision of prevention services, gang intervention services, violence interruption activities, and responsibility for proactive peace-making activities.  A primary component of the program comprises rigorous research and evaluation intended to help improve the provision of GRYD services. To achieve this, evaluators conducted extensive qualitative data collection with both providers and recipients of GRYD services. Qualitative data collection methods included: ethnographic observation, participant-observation, along with ongoing in-depth interviews and focus groups. Coding and analysis of interview notes and observations reveal central themes regarding the implementation of programs designed to reduce gang-related violence in communities.  Overall, GRYD prevention and intervention services have a significant and positive impact on youth and families. Importantly, parents reported increased communication, decreased risk factors, and enhanced relationships with their children. Families also gained much needed structure, time management, and positive parenting strategies. GRYD contracted agency providers of violence interruption activities illuminated central themes including the efficacy of community intervention workers, the importance of community relationship building, and the benefits of inter-agency collaboration. Taken together, these findings provide insight into the efficacy of programs designed to reduce gang-related community violence.  
 
 

Authors

• Jorga Leap, UCLA

• Crystal Thomas, UCLA

• Laura Rivas, UCLA

• Kim Manos, UCLA