One of our strongest initiatives  undertaken is to host a summer camp we call Hood to the Woods for gang-affiliated youths, this has been both effective and impactful to those youth involved. By creating a structured environment that fosters collaboration and mutual respect, we are addressing a critical need in the Omaha community plagued by violence and conflict.  The MAYS Foundation works with local law enforcement, Juvenile Probation and other area organizations working with gang involved youth, to help identify, who would be a good candidate for this trip.  Hood to the Woods focusses on addressing the disconnect between gang rivals, we do this by inviting 10 young men, five crips and five bloods from opposite gang affiliations, their (rival/op) on a week long trip, to the beautiful Rocky Mountains in Colorado.  The camp serves as a transformative space where these young individuals can step away from their usual surroundings and engage in activities that promote personal growth, teamwork, and conflict resolution.

The unique setting of the camp allows participants to experience a different set of rules and social dynamics, which are essential for breaking the cycle of violence that often defines their daily lives. Through partnered exercises, participants are encouraged to work together, overcoming their preconceived notions of rivalry and hostility. This collaborative approach not only helps to build trust among participants but also instills a sense of accountability and responsibility towards one another. As they navigate challenges together, they learn valuable skills such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving, which are crucial for their development both during and after the camp.

Moreover, the emphasis on equal discourse is vital in fostering an environment where every voice is heard and respected. This practice encourages participants to express their thoughts and feelings openly, facilitating a deeper understanding of their own experiences and those of their peers. By engaging in meaningful conversations, they can begin to dismantle the stereotypes and biases that often fuel gang affiliations and violence. This process of reflection and dialogue is instrumental in promoting healing and reconciliation among the youths.

The skills acquired during the camp are not merely transient; they have the potential to create lasting change in the participants’ lives.  If you can imagine someone who has never traveled outside of their State or neighborhood in some cassis, to now be encouraged to ride a horse, zipline, or whitewater rafting, can be very traumatic for some. So MAYS incentivizes the trip using points and cash as a way to promote greater participation.  To witness this process as they overcome their adversities is truly (AMAYSING)   

As they return to their communities, we are not naive to think that they will start hanging out with each other or all of the sudden drop out of the gang, because this was never our intent for Hood to the Woods, our intent is to allow a space for healing and to allow our young men to identify however they see themselves, but have a greater respect for each other without killing each other.

ON THEIR RETURN  many parents report observing positive behavioral changes in their child, which serves as a testament to the program’s effectiveness. The ability to transfer the skills learned at camp into their everyday lives is a crucial indicator of success. It demonstrates that the camp experience is not just a temporary escape but a catalyst for long-term personal development and community improvement.

In conclusion, the Hood To The Woods initiative plays a vital role in addressing the challenges faced by gang-affiliated youths. By providing them with a safe and supportive environment, MAYS equips them with the tools necessary to break free from the cycle of violence and build a brighter future. The positive feedback from parents and the observable changes in behavior underscore the significance of this work. It is through such a program that we can hope to foster a generation that values peace, cooperation, and mutual respect, ultimately contributing to the healing of their communities.