The Support Group Launches Fundraiser Campaign to Empower Chicago Youth and Combat Gun Violence

The Support Group, a Chicago-based nonprofit that creates opportunities for young men and women from underserved communities in Chicago, recently announced its fundraiser campaign to support the Youth Peace Ambassador Program (YPAM). YPAM teaches youth conflict resolution strategies to promote positive peer-to-peer interactions and restorative practices to effectively cope with the trauma of violence experienced by today’s youth. The campaign, spearheaded by The Support Group’s founders, renowned activist Bennie Henry and NBA Hall of Famer Tim Hardaway Sr., seeks to rally the support of 1,000 businesses across Chicago to each donate $1,000 to YPAM’s mission to educate and mentor Chicago’s youth, steering them away from the perils of gun violence. In a city where youth experience many challenges including poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and the pervasive influence of gangs, The Support Group recognizes the urgent need for intervention. Chicago teens 17 years and under make up 8% of arrests for murder, 9% of arrests for shootings, 32% of arrests for armed robbery, and 49% of arrests for carjackings. Through YPAM, the organization empowers young individuals with the tools, resources, and mentorship they need to change the culture of violence and build a better future in their communities. “This fundraiser...