Movimiento Ascendencia

This is a program to prevent girls and adolescents, especially Mexican-Americans, from engaging in risky behaviors, such as drug abuse and gang involvement.
The intervention is based on specialized assistance services and access to leisure and cultural activities. It includes three components:
1) Mediation and conflict resolution;
2) Self-esteem and social support;
3) Cultural awareness.
In addition, the program provides the girls with a safe and supervised place for activities, where they receive after-school and weekend care.

Impact evaluations

An impact evaluation showed that the program significantly reduced self-reported participation in property damage offenses; theft over US$50; and buying, selling, or receiving stolen property. However, it had no impact on self-esteem, school performance, concealment of weapons, and theft under US$50 [1].

Bibliographic reference

[1] Williams, K., Cohen, M. I. & Curry, G. D. (1999). Evaluation of Youth Gang Drug Intervention/Prevention Programs for Female Adolescents. Volume I: Final REPORT. National Institute of Justice (NIJ); Family and Youth Services Bureau. https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/grants/239855.pdf

Information source

Crime Solutions