RPSA Violence Prevention Services

The RPSA Violence Prevention Services (VPS) program, administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services, is a grant-funded initiative based on the Community Violence Intervention model. The program targets individuals aged 20 to 39 who are at high risk of firearm violence in South Shore (Chicago), Rockford, and Danville. The primary objectives include reducing firearm violence through the use of credible messengers for conflict mediation, providing case management and victim services for individual support, and assisting community members in reclaiming public spaces. The grant is valued at 575,000 dollars to serve approximately 50 participants, with a performance period running from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2027, and no renewals permitted. Applicants must demonstrate at least three years of verifiable experience in violence prevention and maintain good standing with the Illinois Secretary of State. The application process requires a single PDF submission by November 13, 2026, consisting of a uniform application, a proposal narrative, a grant budget, and a conflict of interest disclosure. Evaluation is based on a 100-point scale, heavily weighting program design (45 points) and organizational capacity (40 points). Awardees must commit to a racial equity lens, ensure 24/7 staffing for shooting responses, and begin services within 30 days of the contract start date. Final selection is merit-based, though the Department may consider additional factors such as geographical distribution and past performance.