"WHO'S GOT SOLUTIONS FOR THE PROBLEMS IN BLACK AMERICA PART XII

7PM Est. Jay interviews James Cooper. FEDUP-4U was founded by James Cooper, while he was incarcerated in a Federal Correctional Institution, hence the name FEDUP. While serving time Mr. Cooper became fed up with his condition of living as well as the condition of our youth in the communities. So, he formed FEDUP-4U, (Faith, Education, Demanding, Universal, Peace 4 You) and when he came home he dedicated his time to helping these at risk youth in hopes that none of them would have to experience what he had just experienced. Along his travels he ran into a long time friend Robert Kirby (who also was incarcerated in a Federal Correctional Institution) and unbeknownst to them, they both were on the same path, helping at risk youth. So they along with others joined visions and became proactive in rebuilding the community. FEDUP-4U provides prevention and intervention services to at-risk youths, gang "wannabes", and known gang members. Program goals are straight forward: reduce gang violence and steer at-risk youth away from gang involvement. At risk youth are encouraged to continue their education, get jobs and become contributing members of the community. There are a variety of reasons that teens join gangs. Some are looking for prestige and excitement. Others are looking for income, protection, or a sense of belonging. There are also factors that help protect youth from joining gangs. Youth that use their free time in positive ways are more resistant to joining gangs.