Using faith to deal with gangs

Kenneth Hynek • 7th Aug 2009 • World News, Canadian News, Religion, Catholicism, Society, Education, Society, Racism
bullying, Canada, Changing Course, Christ, faith, H2onews, iPhone, Jesus, Knights of Columbus, Racism, Richard Dawkins, Salt + Light Television, Toronto

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From H2onews (a Catholic news iPhone app):

How does the faith-based approach of Catholic education address the problem of gangs and bullying? The issue is of particular concern in suburban communities near Toronto, Canada, where gang activity and aggressive student behaviour have worried many parents. The local Catholic school board responded by creating an innovative, holistic approach to changing the culture in six schools. Their efforts were captured in a new documentary called Changing Course, produced by Salt + Light Television.

“Gangs are nothing more than young people and older people coming together to fill a need, a need that isn’t being met or filled by the community as a whole. […] I think what we’re doing is giving these kids the opportunity to avoid becoming part of a gang if it ever does get started or does come into the area.”

The programs included positive after-school activities, Racism awareness training and peer mentoring.

“I know that if I didn’t have my brother to be a role model for me, I pretty much wouldn’t be who I am now. So I’m pretty much trying to give someone else the same chance that I got when I was younger.”

Among the community partners was the Knights of Columbus. The Catholic fraternal organization provided volunteers to serve healthy breakfasts every morning, addressing the close link between proper nutrition, academics and behaviour.

“One of the things that we work with in our bullying prevention policy is to espouse the virtues and the teachings of Jesus because ultimately, in the end, it’s what Jesus modeled for us that allows us to be better people.”

Among the positive results of the programs were dramatically lower suspension rates and increased parental involvement. These improvements are documented in Changing Course, which will be available on DVD on August 20th.

Of course, we know from Richard Dawkins that to mentor these children in a way that reflects the virtues and teachings of Christ is a horrible and detestable form of abuse…

…and if the results are as positive as they sound, I for one can only say: “continue, abusers!”

I kid, I kid.

Seriously, though, it’s always heart-warming to hear about initiatives like this that effect meaningful change by putting Catholic teaching into practice.