Date of Conferral

2-6-2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Dr. Karel Kurst-Swanger

Abstract

The increase in violent behavior among individuals aged 12 to 19 prompted a nonprofit organization to consider adopting a more proactive approach to reduce such violence in the community while also expanding the range of services offered to address this concern. The organization leaders recognized the necessity of improving their knowledge in this area, prompting them to enlist the services of a research consultant who utilized a generic qualitative research method to explore juvenile violence prevention programs. This professional administrative study examined the experiences and perspectives of public servants who engaged with juvenile offenders, focusing on the influence of their collaboration with community partners on juvenile violence prevention and the reduction of violent crimes. The data collection occurred through an online email survey with descriptive open-ended questions for public servants whose names and contact information were obtained through purposeful sampling. The survey responses were systematically coded and analyzed using MAXQDA data analysis software. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to evaluate the data further and conduct a needs assessment. The findings from the needs assessment indicated the absence of agency and community collaborations, accessible funding, community trust, and parental engagement in youth programming. A formal email contained the recommendation for the organization to assume the position of community facilitator, acting as a resource to link various organizations providing juvenile violence prevention programming. This study promoted social change by clarifying juvenile violence initiatives for newer nonprofit organizations unfamiliar with such programs and their effects on urban communities.

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