The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #50489

Irshad A. Shaikh, MD, MPH, PhD, Masood Ali Shaikh, MD, MPH, and Thomas Papi, MS. Health Dept., City of Chester, 5th & Welsh Streets, Municipal Building, Chester, PA 19013, (610)447-7770, ishaikh@chestercity.com

Problem of youth violence continues to be a significant public health issue in most communities in the nation, especially in urban settings regardless of size. Chester city is a small urban community of 38,000 in southeastern Pennsylvania. Local health department has started multiple violence prevention initiatives in the city to adders this growing concern. One very successful initiative has been the implementation of summer basketball camp since 1996 with funding from the PA department of health. The camp mandates players’ participation in health education workshops on peer pressure, anger management, STDs, drug and alcohol, abuse, etc. Over 500 youth in age groups 11-25 years attend the camp. Where as the number of youth interested in participating has grown many folds, the city has also seen a persistent and gradual decline in crime rates.

This presentation will provide a five year review of the program, factors underlying its successes, continued decline in crime rates during these years, and future recommendations.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to

• Develop a plan for a community-based violence prtevention intervention
• Articulate the benefits of a government and community partnership in violence prevention efforts

Related Web page: www.chestercity.com

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Chester City Health Department, PA State Health Department
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.