Gang Peace

Gang Peace volunteers teach inner-city young people to work together and engage in positive activities, avoiding drugs, violence, and crime.

Gang Peace, a nonprofit, street-based program, operates with the support of more than 800 volunteers who work directly with more than 600 young people in over 40 neighborhoods. Like other Daily Points of Light, these volunteers engage in a direct way in the lives of those in need. For example, student volunteers from local schools and universities serve as mentors, tutors, and role models for Gang Peace youth. Other volunteers help with activities from computer skills training to job placement.

Gang Peace utilizes the strengths and talents of its volunteers to provide opportunities for positive change in the lives of inner-city youth. Professional writers teach writing workshops for youth, challenging their creativity while developing valuable skills. The Berklee School of Music has established a recording studio at the Gang Peace facility where volunteers teach young people about the music industry and how to play, mix, and record their music. The Gang Peace Button Program enables 9 to 13 year olds to become entrepreneurs, selling Gang Peace buttons and keeping 20 percent of their earnings.

In 1989, Rodney Dailey, a former drug addict and gang member, founded Gang Peace. After attending college, Mr. Dailey returned to his neighborhood, determined to make a difference in the lives of young people there. With volunteer and a small staff, Mr. Dailey works with many local grassroots organizations, businesses, universities, and the public sector to make a lasting impact on the Boston community.

Gang Peace has won approval from parents, young people, local government and community leaders alike who credit it with helping to reduce the city’s murder rate by more than 50 percent since 1990.