Introduction: Definition and Study of Youth in Society -- Part IThe Origins of Public Safety Programs for Youth -- Ch. 1 Early and Modern History of Public Safety Youth Programs -- Ch. 2 School Safety Patrols -- Ch. 3 Law Enforcement and Fire Service Exploring -- Ch. 4 Junior Police Academies11 -- Ch. 5 Police Athletic Leagues -- Part II Selected Public Safety Programs -- Ch. 6 Youth Programs in New York City -- Ch. 7 Youth Programs in Berkeley, California -- Ch. 8 Youth Programs in Irvington, New Jersey -- Ch. 9 Youth Programs in Washington, DC -- Part III Youth Programs beyond the Local Level -- Ch. 10 National Youth Programs -- Ch. 11 Fire Cadet Youth Programs -- Ch. 12 Youth Court Programs -- Part IV Critical Issues in Youth Programs -- Ch. 13 Program Issues and Legal Matters -- Ch. 14 Municipal Strategies for Youth Programs in Public Safety -- Conclusion.

This book explores youth involvement in public safety, measuring the success of historic programs in school districts, fire departments, and police departments, and evaluating their potential to mitigate youth violence in the U.S. In its examination of structured community youth programs, such as the Police Athletic League and EMS Exploring, this volume examines the pros and cons of harm reduction and public safety activities through community empowerment of juveniles. The chapters that follow explore the origins of youth-involved public safety programs, recommending that these initiatives may be a solution to improving health, education, and social outcomes. It is ideal for professionals working with juvenile programming and local policymakers.