Gang activity is a serious and complex subject. Causes, strategies and solutions are debated widely throughout the country, as well as here in Westchester. One thing is clear: The recent proliferation of gangs and their connections to crime and violence requires parents, teachers, police officers and all who work with youth to join together to combat youth violence.

County Executive Andy Spano and  District Attorney Janet DiFiore, in collaboration with the county's Youth Bureau and Department of Public Safety, have initiated various programs to combat youth violence. Efforts are geared both to prevention (through education, intervention, counseling, job programs) and to enforcement of criminal laws.

Involvement of community agencies and local police is key as well. These groups are represented on the Westchester County Reducing Youth Violence Task Force, created after the 2006 Gang Summit. (See video highlights of summit.)

Kids X-Press Magazine has given a voice to kids who want to tell their stories about gang violence. Its an opportunity to see the world from their point of view. Read Kids X-Press Magazine.