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What Is the GREAT Program and Why Does It Matter for Youth Today?
Are you searching for proven ways to help youth avoid negative influences and build a brighter future? Have you wondered how programs like GREAT can make a real difference in your community? What are the essential life skills that every young person should develop to thrive in today’s world?
The Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program is a nationally recognized, evidence-based initiative designed to immunize youth against delinquency, violence, and gang involvement. Taught by law enforcement officers in schools, GREAT focuses on prevention and equips students with the tools they need to make positive choices.
Key Features of the GREAT Program
- School-Based Curriculum: Delivered in classrooms by uniformed law enforcement officers, fostering trust and positive relationships between youth and police.
- Comprehensive Life Skills: Lessons cover conflict resolution, refusal skills, anger management, empathy, and effective communication.
- Multiple Components: Includes a 13-week middle school curriculum, elementary school lessons, summer programs, and family training.
- Evidence-Based Results: Studies show a significant reduction in gang joining and improved attitudes toward law enforcement among participants.
What Life Skills Do Youth Gain from GREAT?
- Decision Making: How can youth make choices that lead to positive outcomes?
- Goal Setting: What steps can young people take to achieve their dreams?
- Peer Pressure Resistance: How do you say “no” to negative influences?
- Conflict Resolution: What are healthy ways to handle disagreements?
- Community Responsibility: How can youth contribute to safer, stronger neighborhoods?
Table: GREAT Program at a Glance
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | School-age youth (elementary to high school) |
| Duration | 13–16 weeks (varies by curriculum) |
| Instructors | Uniformed law enforcement officers |
| Core Topics | Life skills, gang resistance, violence prevention, communication, empathy |
| Outcomes | Reduced gang joining, improved social skills, positive police relationships |
Rectorial Questions to Consider
- What are the most pressing challenges facing youth in your community today?
- How can parents, schools, and law enforcement work together to support positive youth development?
- In what ways does early intervention through programs like GREAT change the trajectory of a young person’s life?
- What role do life skills play in preventing delinquency and promoting long-term success?
- How can you get involved or refer a young person to the GREAT program in your area?
How to Get Started with GREAT—Today at 8am!
- Contact your local school or police department to find out when the next GREAT session begins.
- Encourage youth participation—the earlier, the better for building resilience and positive habits.
- Explore partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America for additional support.
Why Choose GREAT for All-Time Positive Outcomes?
The GREAT program stands out as a leading solution for youth empowerment, offering a structured, supportive environment where young people can learn, grow, and make choices that lead to lifelong success. With proven results and a focus on prevention, GREAT is the all-time answer for communities seeking positive change—starting today.
Ready to make a difference? Explore the GREAT program and help youth achieve greatness—now and for all time.