Gang and Drug Task Force

In 1995 a number of violent, gang-related incidents in the community led officials to formalize the Gang and Drug Task Force.  This task force was established  to address the threat of street gangs by pooling the financial and human resources of 11 local governments, schools, non-for-profits, parents, youth and citizens to emphasize that what our community has to offer is far better than what gangs offer.  Discussions among the members of the task force led to the creation of the Youth Interventionist Program.

Now, by engaging with parents via Open Space Technology (a simple way to run powerful meetings to produce change - see www.openspaceworld.org for information), Youth Services works closely with the grassroots parent-led group IMP.A.C.T. (Parents and Community Together to reduce youth alcohol & drug use) to educate and activate parents and community members via Parent Cafés held throughout the community.  More about IMP.A.C.T click http://www.oakparktownship.org/news/thank-you-impact or to see videos, photos and more on IMP.A.C.T. activities in 2010 go to: 

http://www.oakparktownship.org/videos/youth-services-videos

Gang and Drug Task Force Chair:

John FS Williams, M.Ed., LCPC
Director, Youth Services