Stopping the Gang Culture Cycle

Youth economic advancement

South LA County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit)

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

Youth in underserved Los Angeles neighborhoods fall prey to the pressures of joining a gang. Fat Dog Foundation (FGF) recognizes that many young people don’t join gangs by choice, but out of necessity such as peer pressure, a lack of positive role models, and feeling disconnected from family or school. They seek belonging, protection, purpose and financial gain. These youth are at risk of being incarcerated, having limited education, encounter joblessness or very low paying jobs as adults, and being homeless or living in poor environments.
Programs lead by CBOs in underserviced, high risk communities around Los Angeles County are crucial in stopping this cycle of hopelessness driven by economic hardship, limited education, and few alternatives.

Our program seeks to bridge the gap between street life, discipline, education, and success using street outreach and community events to build trust with at-risk youth with our moto "One youngster at a time". Research shows that Community Based Organizations (CBO) have been instrumental to the decline of homicides on Los Angeles streets.
We will mentor small groups by teaching life skills, giving emotional support, and guiding growth opportunities. These tools are the cornerstone of the program that will help the youth reach their individual potential. Financial Literacy is the gateway to financial independence. This is an area of education that has been overlooked and has not been taught to young people in underserviced, low income areas. It's essential to teach financial literacy and highlight educational paths that lead to high-paying careers in today's global economy. We will address issues of pride in oneself and pride within the communities.
We will explore the rich tapestry of cultures that make up the Los Angeles diaspora and how they have shaped the city’s identity. For youth who feel disconnected, lack guidance, and are unaware of their history, this understanding is crucial. Our goal is to help break the cycle of normalized toxicity and foster a sense of self pride, belonging, and purpose.

Los Angeles County stands to benefit significantly from The Fat Dog Foundation’s Youth Prevention Program. By intervening early, the program aims to reduce youth gang involvement, support the continued decline in gang-related homicides, and foster safer, more resilient communities. Through mentorship and empowerment, young men will develop a stronger sense of self-worth and personal responsibility.
Our initiative is designed to deter first-time offenders and contribute to a measurable reduction in recidivism within the first three years. Experienced community mentors will guide and encourage successful participants to mentor others, creating a sustainable cycle of positive influence.
This program is built for growth with the goal of reaching every community across Los Angeles County. We seek to establish collaborative relationships with neighboring counties, working together to create lasting change throughout Southern California and prepare the next generation of successful young men.