Blog | Bright Futures

How caregivers can assist young adults involved in gangs

Supporting Each Other Every Day

Overview

Providers of supported housing are essential in helping young adults who are homeless or at risk of becoming so. But in recent times, a lot of caregivers have been having trouble
coping with the difficulties presented by young adults who are involved in gangs. This blog post examines the causes of this issue and how it affects the people who support them as
well as the providers.

The Increase in Gang Membership

Young adults' inclination to join gangs has been increasing, which poses a challenge for providers of supported housing. These people frequently come from underprivileged homes and
deal with a variety of issues like poverty, violence, and restricted access to chances for both education and work. It can be tempting to join gangs for the protection and sense of
belonging they provide, particularly when one is lacking in

Enhanced Danger and Safety Issues

Young adults with gang affiliations moving into supported housing may raise questions about their own safety as well as the safety of other residents. Tensions can rise and potentially
dangerous situations arise when gang rivalries and conflicts spill over into the residential setting. While guaranteeing each resident's safety and well-being, providers must manage
these risks.

Difficulties in Ending the Cycle

Beyond just offering shelter, a comprehensive strategy is needed to break the cycle of gang affiliation. Providers of supported housing frequently encounter difficulties in
addressing the root causes of gang involvement, which include trauma, substance abuse, and a dearth of positive role models. People might find it challenging to completely stop
participating in gang activities and reintegrate into society if these core issues are not addressed.

Employee Education and Assistance

Staff members in supported housing are essential in helping young adults who are involved in gangs. However, in order to interact with this population in an effective manner,
they need specific training and continuous support. Staff members working in these demanding environments need to possess a thorough understanding of trauma-informed
conflict resolution techniques, and the dynamics of gang culture.

Encouraging Young Adults

One of the main goals for supported housing providers is to give young adults the tools they need to make wise decisions and leave gang affiliation.
Providing mentorship programs, access to positive role models, and educational and career opportunities can assist people in gaining the knowledge and
self-assurance necessary to forge better futures outside of the gang culture.

Cooperation with Outside Organizations

Gang affiliation is a problem that cannot be solved by supported housing providers on their own. It is essential to work in conjunction with outside organizations,
mental health services, and local law enforcement. These collaborations can offer extra tools, knowledge, and assistance to meet the multifaceted requirements of
young adults with gang affiliations.

The Value of Continued Assistance

Recovering and reintegrating after being a member of a gang is a difficult and protracted process. Providers of supported housing need to understand the
value of providing people with ongoing assistance even after they leave their programs.
Sustained success and avoiding relapse into gang involvement can be greatly increased with ongoing support for housing, education, work, and mental health services.