Description
S.T.R.O.N.G. Youth, Inc. is a youth, family, and community development organization that specializes in youth, gang and gun violence prevention and Intervention. Founded 15 years ago (2000), S.T.R.O.N.G. works with families and youth ages 10-21years old. Our mission is to increase safety and sense of community belonging to youth and families across Long Island and the surrounding region. To accomplish this, we provide alternatives to high-risk behaviors for our youth and empower families, residents and stakeholders to implement and endorse socially responsible initiatives in their communities.
Brief History of the Organization
Seeking a holistic, well-rounded approach S.T.R.O.N.G. works with school districts, community agencies, family advocacy groups, universities, colleges, libraries and local law enforcement. S.T.R.O.N.G. has spread its message of non-violence and community ownership widely and directly has served thousands of families in Long Island. S.T.R.O.N.G. started as a grassroots organization reaching youth primarily through "S.T.R.O.N.G. Talks" where ex-gang members and victims speak to groups of students, parents, and community members about the perils of living a violent life. S.T.R.O.N.G. progressed to establishing prevention programs within schools and intervention programs serving youth who were already entrenched in the criminal lifestyle but sought a change (called "University").
