The Protege Project Awarded $199,712 ICJIA Grant to Reduce Violence and Empower Chicago Youth

CHICAGO, Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Protege Project, a leading Chicago-based nonprofit focused on youth empowerment and violence prevention, has been awarded a $199,712 grant through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority's Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (CB-VIP).

This funding will support Pathways to Peace & Prosperity, a comprehensive initiative serving youth ages 14 to 24 in five South Side communities: Auburn Gresham, Greater Grand Crossing, Chatham, Brainerd, and Riverdale. The program focuses on reducing violence and expanding opportunities through mentorship, workforce development, conflict resolution, mental health support, and trauma-informed care.

"This investment is transformative for the young people we serve," said Kewana Reese, Founder and Executive Director of The Protege Project. "With ICJIA's support, we can expand our reach, build safer communities, and provide youth with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive."

The Pathways to Peace & Prosperity program connects participants with credible mentors, offers individualized case management, and provides hands-on workforce and entrepreneurship training. It also integrates restorative justice workshops, mental health services, and community-based pop-up events to make resources more accessible where youth live and gather.

The Protege Project has a proven record of impact, including a 90% reduction in violent incidents among participants and a 75% employment rate within six months of program completion.

For more information about The Protege Project or to get involved, visit www.theprotegeprojectnfp.org or contact [email protected] | 708-991-7458.

About The Protege Project
The Protege Project is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to equipping youth with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities needed to succeed. Through trauma-informed programs, workforce development, and community engagement, the organization empowers youth to disrupt cycles of poverty and violence while creating pathways to lasting success.

SOURCE The Protege Project NFP