Title: Understanding and Avoiding Gangs | mpdc
Headings: 
Understanding and Avoiding Gangs
What is a Gang or Crew?
Who Joins Gangs/Crews and Why?
What Can Parents Do?
What Can Students Do?
Be proactive.
Ask for help. Find a mentor.
Be too busy to get involved.
Change your environment.
Signs of Possible Gang Involvement
Characteristics of Gangs
Download a Brochure
Resources
Community Organizations

Content: A crew is a more loosely-knit group, often based on a neighborhood. These are usually individuals who grew up in or who have family roots in that neighborhood. Regardless of Gang or Crew affiliation, both groups are often associated with a variety of crimes, including narcotics trafficking, gun violations, assaults, and even homicides. Female gangs or crews are growing in DC as well. Gang violence is “a community problem.” Think about it! Who Joins Gangs/Crews and Why? Young people who feel they are not respected by their peers, families or communities turn to gangs for the identity and respect that families normally provide. Youth who see themselves as “weak” or “powerless” may join gangs to become “stronger” and “protected.” Often these individuals suffer from a lack of support from their family and therefore seek support within the gangs.