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The Hispanic Center in High Point, is offering at-risk elementary and middle school students GREAT alternatives to gang activities.

The center will offer Gang Resistance Education and Training, a 12-week gang prevention program for parents and children. GREAT is made possible by a grant from the Governor’s Crime Commission.

Oak Hill Elementary, Allen Jay Elementary and Ferndale Middle School are the primary participants in the program, which started in January and will continue with an eight-week summer camp.

Why elementary and middle school-aged children?

Sometimes children are born into a gang, said Vicki Miller, the center’s executive director. She saw that as an educator when a 5-year-old displayed signs and talked about things related to gang activity. Miller is now retired.

Ofilia Kindley, a parent liaison and an English-As-a-Second-Language teacher at Ferndale Middle School, said some children are exposed to gang life through older siblings.

“We can lock up gang members, but the key is to stop (this activity) before it starts,” said Det. Ken Leonard of the High Point Police Department explained. He said children are recruited at earlier and earlier ages.

“What it really boils down to is ‘What does this child need to grow up and be successful?’” Miller said of the focus of the program. “Sometimes it’s what we think they need and not what the kid (thinks he) needs.”

The Rev. Phillip Kollithanath of Christ the King Catholic Church explained the center doesn’t necessarily talk directly about gangs, but, instead, encourages positive life choices.

“There were a couple of children that were on the fence and we felt we kept them on the right side of the fence,” Miller said.
The center’s summer camp will focus on character building, self-reliance and service learning. Campers will get to explore areas of interest, including potential careers. These activities are meant to encourage the children to pursue their hopes and dreams in positive activities.

Six evening workshops will be held for parents, teaching them to recognize signs of gang activity and how to talk to their kids about achieving their goals.

Camp begins Tuesday.

“Police can’t do it themselves. The community can’t do it themselves. Parents can’t do it themselves,” Leonard said. “Everyone needs to be involved.”

Contact E.A. Seagraves at 883-4422, Ext. 241, or elizabeth. seagraves@news-record.com