MESSAGE FROM THE CEO “

The last two years have been unprecedented. No one could have predicted that the world would have been turned upside down. The nonprofit community was amongst those sectors that were hardest hit and life as we know it changed in so many ways creating an uncomfortable sense of uncertainty for the traditional ways of work.

As servant leaders, Gang Alternative, Inc. (GA) has a moral obligation to continue to serve children, youth, and families the way they need to be served. Our responsibility continues to be to serve the underserved, and we do this by any means necessary. As a faith-based organization, we are guided by the Word, and scripture tells us: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” Philippians 4:6-7. Despite the post-pandemic socio-economic shift, GA continues to grow and thrive. Our programming expanded in 2022, with the addition of seven new programs in the Tri-County area, including a mentoring initiative for boys on ending violence against women and girls. GA increased its service footprint from 105 zip codes in 2021 to 121 in 2022. We launched the Anti-violence Community Coalition as a part of our Community Violence Intervention efforts focused on reducing youth gun violence in South Florida. Free occupational skills training was provided to 301 individuals and 93 parents/caregivers, educators, and social workers benefited from evidence-based Youth Mental Health First Aid training. We distributed 1,120 turkeys for Thanksgiving as a part of our 11th Annual Compassion Project and provided workforce development opportunities to 141 justice-involved men and women.

GA saw a 48% increase in middle, elementary, and high school students participating in our weekly faith-based programs. Our social media following increased by 15% and 1,390 elementary, middle, and high schoolers participated in youth substance abuse prevention sessions. Additionally, being true to our prevention approach to programming, we increased protective factors and decreased risk factors for 3,989 South Florida youth. We opened a corporate office in Belle Glade and a new community center in North Miami Beach. GA received CARF accreditation for another 3 years in case management/services coordination, prevention, and outpatient treatment. It goes without saying that GA’s blessings continue to overflow. To God be the glory for all the great things He continues to do. With gratitude and humility, on behalf of the Board of Directors and amazing staff of Gang Alternative, Inc., I’m honored to present our 2022 Annual Report.

Michael J. Nozile President & CEO