Accomplishments

UCAN's Claude Robinson and Fred Long Travel to the UK to Discuss Violence Prevention

In October, 2008 Claude Robinson, Executive Vice President of Youth Development and Diversity with UCAN, and Fred Long, Youth Leadership Specialist in UCAN's Leadership, Education, Advocacy and Development (U-LEAD) department traveled to the UK on a best practice exchange entitled "Positive Role Models Create Positive Behaviour".  The exchange was devised to allow dialogue and encourage sharing of successful best practice between professionals working with at-risk youth, and to encourage UK government Ministers and Officials to consider the powerful impact of youth mentoring and male role models in relation to violence reduction/prevention.

As a leader in the area of violence prevention, Claude is recognized internationally as a key advocate and counselor in promoting positive role models and has played an important role in reducing Chicago's violent crimes with at-risk youth. On a weekly basis, Claude and his team work with inner city young men to help them identify their purpose in life and try to get them to work out who they are - and lead them toward success. 

It is hoped that lessons could be learned from sharing the Chicago model with those in the UK who are dealing with gang culture and its own problems of conflict and violence.