Exploring Community-Based Gun Violence Intervention Programs Among American Urban Youth in Englewood, Chicago.

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Exploring community-based gun violence intervention programs among youth aged 10–24 in urban neighborhoods of Englewood, Chicago, remains crucial for addressing the pressing concern and crisis of gun violence in the United States. An average of 16,000 youths are impacted by gun violence annually. Although studies indicate the existence of programs aimed at reducing gun violence among youth in urban American settings, there is a lack of consensus on the implementation fidelity, utilization outcomes, and sustained impact of these programs over time. This gap highlights the complex challenges of mitigating this social problem. Therefore, this study aims to understand how gun violence intervention programs, particularly "Cease Fire," empower and engage urban American youth in promoting positive social change, community cohesion, and safety. Utilizing Social Disorganization Theory, it aims to explore the relationship between collective efficacy, community-based interventions, and youth involvement in gun violence. Through qualitative methods, it intends to provide insights into the mechanisms through which collective efficacy influences the implementation and outcomes of gun violence programs in Englewood. The findings will uncover a resilient network, thereby pioneering a model for sustainable youth empowerment and gun violence reduction in urban America.

Author

• Ebenezer Adegoke Omotosho, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee