Gang Alternative, Inc.
"Building Character that Lasts"
When we talk about "Gang Alternative" we are referring to the "gang mentality" that enslaves individuals and families in our communities, keeping them dependent, delinquent and destitute, preventing them from being the best that they can be. Gang Alternative, Inc. (GA) exists to provide alternatives to change this mindset.
GA was incorporated as a 501c3 in 2005 as a result of the need to create community-focused outreach and resource development approaches to address the high crime and high violence in Miami-Dade County. It was founded in faith and evolved with the understanding that there is more to ministry work than just teaching “Bible stuff.”
GA is a community-based organization that is grounded in faith with the continuing purpose of preventing violence and delinquency while promoting self-sufficiency. GA operates under five service pillars:
- Positive Youth Development
- Family Strengthening
- Workforce Development
- Community Upliftment and Partnerships
- Health and Wellness
Mission :
To build character that lasts in children and families through positive alternatives to crime, violence, dependency, and delinquency by offering a holistic approach to their academic, physical, social, economic and spiritual development.
Vision :
A global community-based organization connecting youth and adults to holistic services and tools to develop their full potential and good character to become self-sufficient community stewards.
Values:
Organizational Values guide decisions and tells the world how GA will interact with those it serves.
- Putting God first
- Being Servant Leaders
- Treating others with respect
- Good moral character
- Building and transforming communities
- Positive family life styles
- Positive community change
Target Communities Our target communities are comprised of some of the most underserved in Miami-Dade County, extending from North Miami to Homestead. A significant number of our programs have targeted the Little Haiti, New River, Liberty City and North Miami communities for many years. Now Gang Alternative has expanded to other communities, including Little Havana, through its community coalition initiatives. GA also provides coalition mentoring to a drug-free coalition in Puerto Rico.
Our Leadership includes a Board of Directors with representatives from the public and private sectors. The Chief Executive Officer, with the assistance of the Executive and Management teams, oversees a staff of approximately 100 employees, as a well as a cadre of interns and volunteers. Staff members are fluent in English, French, Haitian Creole, and Spanish, and have a wealth of experience in social services. The staff is deeply rooted in the community and intimately familiar with key community personalities and institutions. They are in tune with the many challenges facing our children and families.
GA holds accreditation and licenses from CARF, the Florida Department of Children and Families and Green Apple. GA is a proud member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce.
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