One of the most serious issues facing our nation is youth violence and juvenile crime. In response to this growing problem, the federal government has implemented after-school programs, midnight basketball and imposed tougher penalties on juvenile offenders. Local communities are also working to reduce juvenile crime. The Garfield Park Neighborhood Association in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has established a mentoring program for youths who are at risk of joining in gang activity. The program pairs young boys with an adult male from the neighborhood who serves as a role model and friend.
Every kid can have an older abult friend to do things with.
While Congress continues to search for solutions to the problem of juvenile crime, local neighborhoods and communities like Garfield Park are doing what they can to make a difference in the lives of at-risk youth.