15 YEARS OF COMMUNITY BUILDING 16 IMPACTS IMPACTS: The Study Committee concluded in 2011 that preventing gang membership is complex, requiring a multifaceted approach and a coordination of resources with broad community participation. The Implementation Task Force’s increased public awareness of gangs and options for reducing gang membership, and encouraged collaborative relationships among community stakeholders. Prevention was established as a long-term community approach for dealing with gang issues. As one participant said, “It got the conversation going.” The INK-OUT tattoo removal program was created to allow former gang members to move forward with their lives. “This one was a life changer,” said one community member. INK-OUT is now housed at The Health Center, located in Walla Walla. The YMCA recently used the study report to obtain a grant to increase security in its lobby. IMPACTS: This project provided useful communication strategies and resources for governmental entities in the region and their constituents, describing several that were implemented by governmental entities. The process created a greater awareness among governmental entities, citizens, and the media about the importance of investing greater attention and resources into improving interactions among citizens and government. The Walla Walla City Manager used the study to support his successful request for a new communications manager position for the City of Walla Walla. Reducing Gang Membership Through Prevention 2010 - 2013 TOPIC: “How may prevention efforts reduce gang membership and the effects of gang activity in the region?” Improving Communication Among Citizens and Government 2012 - 2015 TOPIC: “How can communication and cooperation among citizens and government entities help to ensure that regional and community challenges are identified, understood and addressed?” Study Committee Report Chair: Douglas Carlsen Implementation Task Force Report Chair: Robert M. Withycombe Study Committee Report Chair: Rick Griffin Implementation Task Force Report Co-chairs: Julia Leavitt Jim Sporleder
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjI2MTU5NA==