Robert David, violence prevention manager for the City of Danville and head of Project Imagine, has been selected by the Committee of the Bicentennial Swedish-American Exchange Fund to participate in a two-week research trip to Sweden in September 2025.
This opportunity will allow David to explore how addressing the fundamental needs of youth, as outlined in Maslow's hierarchy, can play a critical role in deterring gang violence.
“I am honored to have been selected for this prestigious program,” said David. “This opportunity will enable me to gather insights that can further enhance our efforts with Project Imagine and contribute to creating safer, more supportive communities for our youth here in Danville.”
The Bicentennial Swedish-American Exchange Fund, established by the Swedish Parliament in 1976 to honor the U.S. Bicentennial, supports research trips for qualified individuals in fields such as public administration, politics, education, and social development. This program facilitates knowledge exchange between the United States and Sweden, fostering collaboration on vital social issues.
David’s project will focus on comparing how the U.S. and Sweden approach youth development and violence prevention by ensuring young people’s physical, emotional, and social needs are met. His research will examine strategies for youth empowerment and the effectiveness of community-based interventions in both countries.
Project Imagine, founded under David’s leadership, aims to steer at-risk youth away from gang involvement by providing them with mentorship, life skills training, and educational opportunities. Through his work, David has become a recognized leader in youth violence prevention, helping to reduce gang activity in Danville.
The Swedish-American Exchange Fund supports individuals like David, who are in positions to influence public opinion and contribute to societal development. Participants must present a detailed project plan and commit to sharing their findings upon their return, ensuring the benefits of their research are widely disseminated.