The structural leadership and the ethnic composition of the gangs vary. Nonetheless, the gangs represent a means of socialization for some urban youth and an arena in which to develop among peers. The gang intervention strategies are based on the premise that street organizations are integral parts of their local communities and have developed skills, also referred to as cultural capital, that can be used as an asset by local communities to foster community development. This premise is discussed in an analysis of the functional community and social capital theory that suggests functional communities are built through intergenerational relations. The community organizations in New York City have sought to incorporate the organizational skills of the three gangs through community activism and networking with community members. 15 references and 3 tables