Westchester County will fund programs to curb gang violence with money earmarked to target the source of the violence.

The county is investing $100,000 in three agencies. The Nepperhan Community Center in Yonkers is receiving $35,000 for its Transitions Program. The program is different because it targets people already in gangs and offers them skills so they can choose a new lifestyle.

Jim Bostic is the director of the center and wants to keep the teens and young adults from re-entering prison. Bostic says gang members are often searching for what is missing in their lives.

Forty-thousand dollars will be set aside for the Guidance Center's Power of Peace Program in Mount Vernon. Family Services of Westchester will receive $23,000 for mentoring programs.

Bostic says he hopes these steps will help young people get a second chance.

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