Cities United launches community violence prevention initiative in Kankakee

The City of Kankakee is taking significant steps to address youth violence and enhance public safety through a renewed partnership with Cities United, a national organization focused on community violence prevention. During a recent Public Safety Committee meeting, Mayor Curtis highlighted the ongoing collaboration, which aims to support young people, particularly black males aged 18 to 24, who are disproportionately affected by violence in the community.

Mayor Curtis welcomed the Cities United team, led by Mr. Anthony Smith, who emphasized the importance of comprehensive public safety strategies that go beyond law enforcement. The initiative, which began before the COVID-19 pandemic, has now resumed with a focus on prevention and intervention. Smith noted that the organization is currently on a "Leading the Way Tour," visiting various partner jurisdictions to share successful strategies and resources.

As part of this initiative, Cities United is engaging with local youth, providing 15 participants with $500 gift cards for their involvement in discussions about community safety. Additionally, the organization plans to distribute $40,000 in grants to local community-based organizations in Kankakee over the coming months to further support their efforts.

The meeting underscored the need for mentorship, job opportunities, and resources for young people in Kankakee. Smith shared that many youth expressed skepticism about the potential for change, highlighting the importance of building trust and demonstrating commitment from community leaders.

The partnership aims to create a holistic approach to public safety, focusing on long-term solutions to reduce violence and improve the quality of life for residents. As the Cities United team continues its work in Kankakee, they will provide a comprehensive report with recommendations for future initiatives, reinforcing the city's commitment to fostering a safer environment for all its citizens.