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Community Violence Intervention (CVI) - Second Chance Initiative - Main Location

The Second Chance Initiative (SCI) violence prevention program provides a community-focused approach to violence prevention. Central to SCI's philosophy is the belief that violence is a learned behavior and can be mitigated through strategies akin to disease control. The program focuses on detecting potential violence and intervening promptly through trained messengers. It provides ongoing behavior modification and support to high-risk individuals. Efforts are made to change community norms from violence acceptance to rejecting violence as a norm. Data is continuously analyzed to ensure effective implementation and identify trends. Staff receive comprehensive training and technical support for proper execution. These execution components include:High-Risk Individual Identification: Through structured intake criteria, SCI identifies and engages with high-risk youth and young adults. Individuals must meet criteria, such as gang involvement, violent criminal history, or recent victimization.Street Outreach Workers: Their street outreach program ensures 24/7 availability of workers who intervene in conflicts, preventing retaliatory violence. They prioritize keeping conflicts in check through mediation and continuous follow-ups. Outreach workers are chosen for their credibility within high-risk communities. Outreach workers are provided a State of Illinois required 40 hour violence prevention training and quarterly booster training.Case Management: Utilizing case managers, SCI develops tailored plans and connect individuals to vital resources and services, facilitating their transition away from violent lifestyles.Victim Services: SCI provides support to victims of violence, aiding in their physical and emotional recovery by empowering them with skills, services, and opportunities.Changing Social Norms: Through media campaigns, events, and partnerships with community organizations and law enforcement, SCI strives to foster a societal consensus against violence.

Date of Last Formal Update

09/29/2025

Data provided by

211 Metro Chicago

Physical Address

200 East 75th Street, Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60619

Hours

Mon 10:00am - 6:00pm; Tue 10:00am - 6:00pm; Wed 10:00am - 6:00pm; Thu 10:00am - 6:00pm; Fri 10:00am - 6:00pm;

Application process

Please call the agency to schedule an appointment. If someone does not answer, please leave a message and someone will reach out as soon as possible.

Fee

Free

Eligibility

Though the agency focuses on individuals at high-risk for violence or gang involvement, all are welcome.

Languages

English

Service area

Chicago, IL

Agency info

Second Chance Initiative

At Second Chance Initiative Inc, we believe in building a safer and stronger community by breaking the cycle of violence and creating opportunities for growth and success. Our mission is to foster a violence-free society by nurturing, sustaining, and providing meaningful opportunities within urban communities through education, career training, and social services.