Chicago, one of the US cities worst hit by gun violence, is on track to make history with a record-low number of homicides in over six decades. Community-based violence intervention programs have played a crucial role in driving this decline. These programs are now active in nearly half of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods and have been shown to prevent thousands of shootings.
Studies demonstrate that individuals participating in these programs are dramatically safer than those still involved in street violence. The success of the strategy is attributed to community leaders, foundations, and business partners who have collaborated on funding and implementing these initiatives.
The credit also goes to law enforcement agencies, such as the Chicago police department, which has adopted a data-driven approach resulting in fewer arrests and less crime. Additionally, city, county, and state governments have increased investment in violence intervention programs, boosting spending from $3 million to over $100 million annually.
However, financial constraints pose a significant threat to this progress. Elected officials face the daunting task of finding funding for safety initiatives without compromising other essential services. To ensure continued success, it is imperative that public sector partners make violence intervention a permanent fixture of Chicago’s public safety strategy.
According to estimates, every dollar invested in preventing shootings can generate close to $20 in savings or new investments. The long-term benefits far outweigh the costs, making this investment a sound one for the future of the city. By staying committed to violence intervention and collaboration with community partners, Chicago can set an example for other cities worldwide, showcasing effective solutions to crime and promoting peace.
Source: https://chicago.suntimes.com/columnists/2025/08/25/community-violence-intervention-programs-chicago-gun-arne-duncan