community prevention and intervention
organized efforts by professionals, indigenous nonprofessionals, and others to implement preventive programs as well as systems for intervention in dealing constructively with problems in the community, such as substance abuse, homelessness, child abuse, juvenile delinquency, cigarette smoking, and a high suicide rate. These efforts are typically most effective where the residents are themselves involved in dealing with such problems through existing community groups, such as neighborhood councils, block committees, service groups, social and fraternal organizations, and community educational and self-help programs. See also community-centered approach.