Educating, Empowering & Engaging Southside Communities
Our primary aims are to diminish instances of violence in Chicago through the provision of mental health assistance, fostering community connections, offering coaching services, mediating conflicts, promoting peacebuilding efforts, and providing alternatives to gun violence.
Making a Difference in Chatham
From initiatives focused on preventing violence and engaging in street outreach to addressing Social Determinants of Health (SDoH), our programs are equipped to build new career pathways, develop employment opportunities, and to foster revitalization in underserved areas. Our mission is dedicated to serving and enhancing the quality of life for Chicago area residents.
Programming
& Services
Violence Intervention & Prevention
Through a multifaceted approach, Alternatives To Violence (ATV) offers a range of services designed to address the root causes of violence and provide viable alternatives. At the core of the program are targeted interventions that seek to de-escalate conflicts along with resources to resolve disputes peacefully. We also offer counseling and support services for individuals at risk of perpetrating violence, providing them with avenues for personal growth and positive change.
Victims Services & Mental Health Support
Our victims services and mental health support program provides compassionate and comprehensive assistance to individuals who have experienced trauma and victimization. Through our victim services, we provide emotional support, advocacy, and guidance to help survivors navigate the complexities of the legal system and access resources for recovery. ATV even offers counseling and therapy to address the psychological impact of trauma.
Workforce Development
We also empowering individuals with the tools and resources they need to succeed in today's competitive job market. Through a combination of personalized support, hands-on training, and skill-building workshops, we equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to secure meaningful employment and achieve their career goals. Our team works collaboratively with participants to develop personalized career plans that align with their aspirations and skills.
Current & Previous Events
Check out our recent press video featured on Chicago’s own, ABC 7 Eyewitness News. Coverage of our Alternatives To Violence (ATV) Youth vs Law Enforcement Basketball Game at Simeon High School in Chicago…
“For generations, our commitment has been to empower and uplift our local community. Whether through the provision of our trusted food pantry, engagement in juvenile justice and violence prevention initiatives to curb gun violence, or the provision of alternatives to violence, we consistently deliver. Our efforts extend beyond prevention; we actively provide avenues for shaping the trajectory of future generations.”
— Elder Calvin Brown, Grant Administrator
Our events and programming aren’t just informative, they are fun and engaging…
At ATV, Our events aren't just informative; they're designed to be engaging experiences that bring our community together and create opportunities for all. From dynamic community health fairs that promote wellness to meaningful partnerships with local high schools, we're committed to fostering connections and building bridges. Additionally, our involvement in job fairs and collaborations with employers further demonstrate our dedication to empowering individuals with tangible opportunities for growth and success.
Meet Our
Leadership Team
This initiative is led by Friendly Temple Church of God in Christ located in the heart of Chicago’s Chatham area. Friendly Temple, a tax-exempt, 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization rooted in religious values, has its headquarters in Cook County. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Friendly Temple has flourished as a beacon of community involvement, economic empowerment, philanthropy, and initiatives dedicated to assisting youth, families, and residents facing challenges.
Bishop Edwin Walker
Elder Calvin
Brown
Why Choose ATV?
We don’t just “stop the violence”, we create opportunity. Our participants have access to a wide range of training opportunities designed to enhance their employability and job readiness. This includes technical skills training in high-demand industries, such as technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, as well as soft skills development in areas such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. ATV has also won over a million in grant funding from FEMA, Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Bureau of Violence Prevention, Justice Advisory Council (JAC) and Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), to name a few. When you choose ATV, you are choosing a partner, a program, and a team that works for us and by us!
Grant Funding…
Proud Awardee…
Our Alternatives To Violence (ATV) program has received over a million in funding from FEMA for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Violence Prevention Programs, Cook County Justice Advisory Council (JAC), and Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA), to name a few.