When gang members decide that they want to leave the gang, there are a few simple steps they can follow. It's important, though, that one make up his mind definitely that he wants out and will stay out. One needs to close the chapter on gang life conclusively beginning with a change of mind about being a gang member.

Begin spending your time doing other things.

1. Don't let the other gang members know you want to get out.

2. Try to stop looking like a gangster (hair style, clothing, walk, use of colors, avoid displaying tattoos and use of symbols).

3. Find other things to say, other things to do, and other people to do them with. Keep busy in meaningful activities.

4. Get good at making excuses for not hanging out with the homies. (Have your parents answer the phone and advise homies that you are grounded. Start going to church and get involved. Let the homies konw your girlfriend or boyfriend thinks the life is too dangerous and troublesome.)

5. Find people who will support you and believe in you.

6. Find support in a local church where you are urged to make a salvation commitment. Attend services regularly and get involved in service.

7. Spend more time with family and with responsible adults.

9. Pray expecting deliverance and success. Ask others to pray for you and with you. God created you and cares about every aspect of your life. Prayer changes things we as humans cannot. Prayer can change negative plans, hearts and minds. Prayer can result in a new you.

The earlier a member chooses to get out, the better the chances of success.

Gang life typically leads three directions:

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