Watch Changing Perceptions: From Youth Violence to Youth Success, A Montbello Story

Since 2011, we have worked with residents in Montbello to support positive youth development and prevent youth violence. We have put into place proven programs which address needs that the community identified.

 

Our Mission

To promote positive youth development and reduce youth violence in Montbello through a coordinated community-wide effort. We envision a self-empowered community that we are proud of.

“In 2012, 20% of youth in Montbello screened at risk for violence perpetration.”
— Beverly Kingston, Center for the Study & Prevention of Violence

Our Methods & Impact

  • We intervene early to prevent problem behavior.
  • We address social/emotional development, family cohesiveness and school success.
  • We improve positive recognition of young people.
  • We improve Montbello's livability.

Steps to Success is working to reduce youth violence by at least 10% by 2016 in Montbello and is community-driven. Our Montbello Community Board makes the decisions. Steps to Success aligns with Mayor Hancock's Cradle to Career priorities. 

CU Boulder's Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence oversees the Steps to Success project. The project is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and is one of six nationally recognized Youth Violence Prevention Centers of Excellence.

What We've Achieved          Ongoing Activities

  • Created a governance structure to oversee, support and sustain Steps to Success.

  • Surveyed nearly 3,000 young people and over 400 parents in schools and the community (very high response rates). We likely have the best community level data in the state!

  • Used this data to prioritize the top risk and protective factors that the community wants to address. 

  • Developed a Community Action Plan using evidence-based programs to address the community's top risk and protective factors.

  • Support a series of community events and activities in Montbello.
  • Community Action Plan is being implemented.
  • Steps to Success Positive Recognition Campaign and first annual Steps to Success Positive Recognition Awards Night.
  • Participating in the international documentary project "One Day On Earth."
  • Successful implementation of five evidence-based programs in Montbello.