Violence prevention organizations such as Chicago CRED, READI Chicago, Communities Partnering 4 Peace, Youth Peace Center in Roseland, UCAN in North Lawndale, Maafa on the West Side, Iman on the South Side, New Life Centers in Little Village and several others across the city begin by recognizing that street violence is tied to social failure and trauma.
Under CRED’s model, they get a stipend while they transition, counseling and life coaches to keep them on track, as well as role models and support they never had growing up. Our workers also negotiate peace treaties, intervene in online disputes, occupy “hot spots” to discourage violence and help young people at risk earn degrees and get jobs.
It’s slow, expensive, and risky work and it’s not foolproof, but research from Northwestern University and the University of Chicago shows promise. We estimate that taking these programs to scale would cost $400 million to $500 million per year.
CLICK HERE to read the full op-ed by Arne Duncan.