YouTurn is a non-profit organization committed to using evidence-based strategies of suppression, intervention and prevention to deter violence.

We serve adolescents and young adults, 12 to 24 years of age residing in the northeast sector of Douglas County in Omaha, Nebraska that are at highest risk for violence, often associated with gangs, and other activities that negatively impact their opportunity for success.

YouTurn believes that effectively reaching adolescents and young adults requires a collaborative effort between youth, parents/guardians, schools, community-based service providers, law enforcement and other key community stakeholders.

• YouTurn creates opportunities for youth to “break the cycle” of violence by:
• Helping adolescents and young adults seek positive alternatives to violence; and
• Reducing the costly impact of violence, often associated with gangs, in our neighborhoods and schools.

OUR APPROACH

YouTurn has adopted the evidence-based Cure Violence Health Model.  Like all Cure Violence sites, YouTurn stops the spread of violence by using methods and strategies associated with disease control:

• Detecting and intervening where violence occurs;
• Identifying and treating those most at highest risk; and
• Changing social norms by implementing innovative approaches

YouTurn uses evidence-based strategies and programs, designed specifically for adolescents and young adults most at risk for engaging in violence. Our Violence Interrupter and Outreach Workers maintain a visible presence in neighborhoods and schools most impacted by violence. Through strong, effective collaborations, YouTurn provides adolescents and young adults with opportunities to “turn their lives around”.

In addition to its suppression, interruption and intervention activities, YouTurn utilizes an initial engagement process to assess the needs of adolescents and young adults on an individual basis. The initial engagement process allows YouTurn staff to better understand personal experiences, cultural norms,  behaviors and existing family and community support systems.  This process also helps  staff to determine how best to work with each person. When appropriate, enrollment is completed.  Shortly thereafter, an individualized Risk Reduction Plan is created. The plan includes referrals for support from trusted community-based service providers skilled at working with at-risk youth and families by providing the following support services:

• Referrals for behavioral health screenings and other healthcare services
• One-on-one mentoring and advocacy
• School accountability and GED programs
• Employability skills building and training
• Job placement services