The RPSA Violence Prevention Services (RVPS) Grant, overseen by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) through the Office of Community and Positive Youth Development, is designed to reduce firearm violence in communities most affected by this issue across Illinois. This initiative, part of the Reimagine Public Safety Act (RPSA), funds comprehensive violence prevention programs targeting individuals at the highest risk of being victims or perpetrators of firearm violence. Programs must employ evidence-based methods like street outreach, case management, and victim services.
A total funding pool of approximately $46,800,000 is available for this grant cycle, distributed between Chicago (around $38,900,000) and Greater Illinois communities (around $7,900,000). Individual grant amounts average $575,000, intended to serve approximately 50 participants per program. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations, local government units, and Level One Trauma Centers/Hospitals, all of which must demonstrate at least two years of experience in providing relevant services to high-risk populations in RPSA-eligible areas.
Mandatory program elements include street outreach using credible messengers to mediate conflicts, case management to connect participants with resources, and victim services aimed at helping those impacted by violence recover and build resilience. Applicants must detail their plans for these services and demonstrate readiness to begin within 30 days of the grant award. Applicants must also integrate equity and trauma-informed principles in service delivery and show collaboration with local organizations and convening bodies.
Applications must be submitted by December 4, 2024, at noon (CST). Applicants are required to complete the Uniform Grant Application for State Grant Assistance and provide a detailed program narrative, a budget broken down by fiscal year, and several mandatory attachments. Awards will be granted based on a merit-based review process considering organizational capacity, program design, alignment with RPSA goals, and geographical needs. Successful applicants will begin their 12-month grant period on January 1, 2025.
