Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson announced the launch of a Request for Proposals (RFP) to fund a network of community conveners for neighborhood safety as part of The People’s Plan for Community Safety. Johnson expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I am thrilled to announce this critical investment in community safety.” The initiative aims to empower neighborhood groups to collaborate with City agencies in creating a better, stronger, and safer Chicago.

Deputy Mayor of Community Safety, Garien Gatewood, highlighted the importance of directing resources into disinvested communities to address the root causes of violence. Gatewood emphasized the significance of building upon existing foundational elements within communities and supplying the necessary resources for this vital work.

Alderman Jason Ervin commended the initiative as a step towards addressing decades of disinvestment in neighborhoods, emphasizing the essential role of community-based organizations in promoting peace. Alderwoman Stephanie Coleman echoed this sentiment, stressing the necessity of investing in people and leaders within communities for future prosperity and enhanced quality of life for residents.

Alderperson Michael D. Rodriguez expressed pride in supporting holistic solutions to violence prevention, emphasizing the commitment to providing resources and support to community-based organizations to make a meaningful impact on decreasing violence in communities.

The City of Chicago aims to fund four qualified community-based organizations, one in each of the initial priority community areas, to function as community conveners under The People’s Plan for Community Safety. These organizations will receive funding to carry out various convening activities aligned with PPCS priorities.

A total of $1,000,000 will be available through the RFP for the initial contract period, with up to four contracts valued at $250,000 per year expected to be awarded. Interested respondents can access the RFP and any future addenda on the City’s Department of Procurement Services website.

For more information on The People’s Plan for Community Safety, individuals are encouraged to visit the official City of Chicago website dedicated to community safety initiatives.