Choose 2 Change Program Forges Ahead
For most children and teens, the end of the school year means long lazy days soaking in the sun, hot food and cool treats. But for many others, especially young people on Chicago’s south and west sides, it’s the start of a dangerous three months. Add layers of fear and isolation from the COVID pandemic, […]
The University of Chicago Crime Lab – Honoring 10 Years of Innovative Strategies
The University of Chicago Crime Lab recently celebrated 10 years of work spurring innovative crime reduction strategies. The results of Crime Lab and Education Lab work have developed into centerpieces of Chicago’s anti-violence strategies. One such success is Choose to Change (C2C), an intervention designed to help youth at risk of violence victimization and school disengagement. Developed […]
Chicago’s Choose to Change Serves as Example of Need for Programs Helping Children Exposed to Trauma
Two representatives from Chicago’s Choose to Change (C2C) program shared their experiences with reporters during a news conference yesterday announcing new bipartisan legislation to increase support for children who have been exposed to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma, such as witnessing violence, parental addiction, or abuse. The news conference was hosted by U.S. Senator […]
White Sox Celebrate Choose to Change Youth
Last night White Sox Manager Rick Renteria and his wife Ilene hosted an awards dinner at Guaranteed Rate Field to celebrate another group of young people completing our Choose to Change program. Twenty-five youth were recognized for their commitment to academics while participating in our six-month violence prevention program, which works with youth through mentoring, […]
White Sox Welcome Choose to Change Youth to Club 17
Choose to Change youth and mentors attended the White Sox game on June 27 through Club 17— Sox manager Rick Renteria’s initiative aimed at helping young people reach their potential. Named for his jersey number, Club 17 was inspired by Rick’s own childhood in Compton, California during a time when money was tight for his […]
Chicago Sports Alliance Hosts Choose to Change at Malcolm X College
On Monday, June 25, the Chicago Sports Alliance hosted a Field Day for youth and mentors from Choose to Change at Malcolm X College in Chicago. Chicago Police Department officers from Districts 3, 5 and 7, joined the youth for lunch, peace circles and team-building activities. The event provided a meaningful opportunity to get together […]
$1 Million Investment in Violence Prevention
Five major Chicago sports teams – the Bulls, Blackhawks, Bears, Cubs and Chicago White Sox – recently announced a combined contribution of $1 million to address community violence in Chicago. This funding, part of the newly formed Chicago Sports Alliance, will allow us to continue to provide Choose to Change (C2C) in coordination with Youth […]