Our future looks GOOD.

About us

Gangs Out of Downey (GOOD) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that focuses its efforts on raising awareness about the dangers of gangs and gang involvement, educating on ways to avoid such involvement, providing positive alternatives, and intervening in situations where guidance can promote responsible behavior. Our efforts unite local government, businesses, schools, civic organizations, and residents towards preventing youth gang activity.

Our story

In 1989, local business and community member Phil Presicci teamed up with Downey Unified School District board member Betty Ferraro and district officials Edward Sussman and Stan Hanstad to found Gangs Out Of Downey (GOOD).

At that time, the City of Downey was experiencing an increase in crime, particularly gang-related activity. In response, GOOD developed a program to eliminate gang activity. All of the local service clubs (Rotary, Kiwanis, Optimist, Soroptimist), the Chamber of Commerce, Board of Realtors, the school district, local judges, elected officials, and community leaders decided to become involved and take back the city.

Over the years, the anti-gang organization has offered counseling to youth and their parents and siblings, free sports and recreation programs for those at risk, and a nationally syndicated gang-prevention program for elementary school children called “Kids on the Block.” GOOD has also awarded 25 scholarships, valued at $200 per semester, to those who complete its 10-week counseling program and choose to attend a two-year college.

GOOD also sponsors a community policing program, increased school campus supervision, an after-school and summer sports program, and a youth jobs-career program that provides employment for “at-risk” students.

Gangs Out Of Downey meets on the first Tuesday of every month and sponsors anti-crime activities, including the “10-20” Club, an organized program for “at-risk” students between the ages of 10 and 20.

Our mission

To provide at-risk youth in Downey with resources, intervention tools, and opportunities for personal growth to steer them towards a safe, productive future.

EDUCATION

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PREVENTION

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INTERVENTION

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COLLABORATION

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EDUCATION • PREVENTION • INTERVENTION • COLLABORATION •

Our goals

  • Promote awareness

  • Sponsor the removal of graffiti

  • Support gang suppression

  • Educate our parents and youth in gang violence

  • Provide interventions for youth at risk of gang involvement

  • Encourage the establishment of new diversionary programs

  • Stimulate responsible behavior through recognition

Board of Directors

  • Tony Cristani

    President

    Financial Partners Credit Union

  • Ronnie Fernandez

    First Vice President

    10-20 Club

  • Scott Loughner

    Second Vice President

    Downey Police Department

  • Ray Mesler

    Treasurer

    Downey Federal Credit Union

  • Cathy Godinez

    Secretary

    Downey Razorbacks

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Please consider supporting our efforts. Every dollar counts!