The research also sought to determine the attitudes of black professionals about black street gangs in the Kansas City area. Results indicated that gangs alone are not responsible for the violence in Kansas City. Other causes include drug abuse, dysfunctional families, values, lifestyles, a sense of personal responsibility, and greed. It is also important to understand that African-American gang leadership is partly a search for alternative leadership. The apparent lack of equal opportunities for all people has also been a major consideration for many black gang leaders. Nevertheless, their leadership has had a major negative impact on society, has differed significantly from traditional black leadership in the context of society, and has sensitized the country to the needs of its youth. An organization called Break and Build is providing a foundation for new direction for street gang members in Kansas City. Its members are former gang members. Its purpose is to provide viable alternatives for the transformation and redirection of its staff, members, and clients by developing nontraditional leadership to improve the quality of life of youth in the area. However, many black professionals have strongly negative attitudes toward street gangs. The new direction of street gangs in Kansas City needs their encouragement and support. Figures and 34 references