Circles of Influence - Youth Violence

Problem: Lack of education, cultural norm that glorifies violence/gangs/drugs, access to weapons

Solution: Increase education and awareness, create stricter gun control laws, providing additional support and outlets to get kids out of violence (like counseling services)

Supporters/opponents/decision makers:
--community leaders, Teen Life Centers, Seattle Parks and Rec, Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative (Strengthening Families)
--drug dealers, gang members (fear losing power)
--mayor, city council, voters, school districts, friends

Short-term:
~target men and get them involved
~public at whole to raise awareness
~start conversation with everyone, not just those involved (sex education with guns)
~start trying to get funding

Mid-term:
~create forums where youth can hear from people with experience
~create options for other things to do - make it cool to do
~develop options for teens - decision makers re-allocate funds in the city for youth to decide what to do

Long-term:
~get increased funding for prevention programs, counselors, etc.
~programs to increase confidence in selves