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Our programs aim to inspire change, focusing on areas like violence prevention, education, and community engagement. Whether you’re looking for youth programs, theater classes, or financial literacy workshops, we have initiatives that bring positive impact to Chicago’s communities.
Research
We employ a data-driven approach to explore community challenges, particularly focusing on the impact of crime on south side economic growth. Through rigorous analysis, we uncover actionable insights to inform evidence-based solutions and empower individuals affected by community violence. By prioritizing research excellence, we advocate for policy reforms and innovative approaches to create tangible impact in our communities.
Re-entry
We reduce recidivism by providing essential resources to justice-involved individuals, offering job and business training, and updating on legislative matters. As a founding member of the Community Support Advisory Council (CSAC) in Illinois, we address racial disparities and promote a crime-free lifestyle. We host events for returning citizens, including CSAC & Overcomer meetings, and report significant growth in participant numbers and program completion rates among recently released individuals.
Outreach
We’re committed to preventing violence and promoting community safety. We engage with individuals and groups at high risk of violence, responding to critical incidents to de-escalate tension and provide support. Through mediation, we address conflicts and work to dissuade individuals from resorting to violence by highlighting its consequences.
Additionally, we offer access to social services such as education and job training to promote positive behavioral change. Our community messaging initiatives, including 'Light in the Night,' serve as powerful reminders of our collective stance against violence, fostering a safer and more cohesive community.
Organizing
As a leading African American community organizing organization on Chicago's Southside, our organizing initiatives empower those most affected by systemic racism and oppression, recognizing their potential to drive meaningful change. We shape policy, foster leaders, and mobilize residents through training, research, and action. We collaborate with grassroots leaders to address pressing community needs.
Mentoring
With a proactive approach to fostering safer cities, we guide and empower youth to become leaders in their communities. For ages 9-24, our mentoring programs offer comprehensive training, education, and leadership development initiatives.
At Target Area Youth Zone, our flagship mentoring initiative, we provide a supportive environment for participants to explore learning, engage new experiences, and build meaningful connections.
Mental Health
We foster supportive relationships, provide educational resources, and promote personal growth among staff and participants. Specialists conduct workshops, offer counseling, and collaborate on goal-oriented approaches, contributing to safer cities by inspiring and empowering individuals.
Our approach emphasizes a strength-based model to empower individuals in developing skills that enhance autonomy and resilience, focusing on overcoming obstacles to personal and emotional growth, and ultimately fostering an environment conducive to mental well-being and personal development.
Education
We’re committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders by offering professional development opportunities, providing diverse educational resources and programs tailored to individuals of all ages, fostering a culture of lifelong learning. Additionally, we advocate for policies that positively impact our community's education system, ensuring equal access and opportunities for all.
Entertainment
We aim to provide engaging and culturally enriching experiences for the community. Our diverse range of activities include theater workshops for both adults and youth, offering opportunities to explore the arts and express creativity. in addition, we curate shows and events that highlight the diverse talents within our community. Our goal is to create memorable experiences that inspire, entertain, and bring people together, contributing to the vibrancy and vitality of our community.
Programs
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