Abstract

This presentation outlines the preliminary findings from the focus groups and hip hops songs that were created by the participants of a youth internship program. A preliminary analysis of the data emphasizes the importance of personal involvement in gang prevention. More specifically, the youth stressed their relationship with the facilitator as central to the their experience. Workshops, the internship, recreational activities and tutoring sessions were peripheral. In the process of relationship development, the community center, which is usually understood as a 3rd place (public space), became a 1st (home) and 2nd (place of learning and achievement) place for the participants. Finally, a leisure environment (intrinsically motivated, and a perceived sense of freedom and choice) was essential in creating this all encompassing space.