The costs associated with violence and crime in Chicago is in the billions of dollars, in lost lives and victim hospitalizations, lost revenues as families and businesses relocate, and in the budgets for policing, court systems and incarceration. The costs of adequately funding anti-violence interventions are also in the billions but could provide long-term, sustainable solutions to stem and slowly reverse the rising increase in violent crime.

Arne Duncan, CEO of Chicago CRED, one of a number of anti-violence programs, stated that this year is critical as the city cannot have a third straight year of rising violence. Preliminary research suggests that one of the most effective strategies involves community-based programs and investments including direct outreach to high-risk individuals. To read more about how investments in violence prevention could change the trajectory in Chicago, click here.

Article by Andy Grimes/Sun-Times Photo by Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

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