Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint: RFP Community Gun Violence Reduction Programming and Services

The purpose of this Request for Proposals is to identify qualified organizations to deliver summer focused programming and services aligned with the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint. This funding opportunity is intended to address documented service gaps that occur during the summer months when school-based structure decreases and youth disengagement and violence risk increase. Programs funded through this RFP must prioritize prevention, engagement, and stabilization strategies that reduce the likelihood of violence involvement and increase protective factors for youth and young people experiencing elevated vulnerability during the summer period. This RFP is designed to complement existing Blueprint partner services and will not fund duplicative programming. Priority service areas include summer youth programming, young teen female mental health supports, vocational and transition assistance for at risk youth, and faith based or community rooted mentoring approaches that leverage trusted relationships.

Posting Questions? Contact: Ashley Stickels 205 W. Park Ave. Champaign IL 61820 ashley.stickels@champaignil.gov

In response to community calls for action, the Champaign City Council designated gun violence as a top priority allocating ARPA funds for intervention programs focused on youth engagement, safe spaces and victim support. In December 2021, the City Council (SS-2021-037) approved the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint. The Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint engaged partners with a history of anti-violence prevention and intervention services. At a Study Session on January 28, 2025 (SS 2025-003), Council directed staff to continue with the implementation of the Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint. The Community Gun Violence Reduction Blueprint consists of three overarching broad goal areas that include strategies that have been designed based on best practices and evaluation results. The goals include Goal 1 (prevent/reduce gun violence and promote safety), Goal 2 (enhance community engagement and support), and Goal 3 (data driven decision making). Partnering agencies bring a culturally responsive lens to their work, serving communities of color and individuals who are, or have been, justice involved. On August 5, 2025, (CB 2025-137) Council approved the execution of contracts with Blueprint partners for the fiscal year 2025-26.