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Join Our Mailing ListFamily and Community Violence Prevention Program
ILLINOIS
| Chicago State University 9501 South King Drive Chicago, IL 60628-1598 |
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| Phone: | (773) 995-3823 |
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| Fax: | (773) 995-2957 |
| Title: | Project Sankofa |
| Project Period: | 08/01/03 -07/31/06 |
| FLC Director: | Glenn Morris |
| Target Group: | Youth 12-18 |
| Chicago State University's (CSU) Family Life Center in collaboration with the Institute of Positive Education, offers Project Sankofa, an African-centered, multidimensional violence prevention program. The project which targets 25 youth who live in Grand Crossing, an impoverished, predominantly Black community, is designed to deter participants from joining street gangs so prominent in the area. The curriculum is multidirectional and cultural-specific. The Personal Development curriculum covers moral development, social skills, conflict resolution, anger management, and social problem solving. The Cultural Development curriculum is designed to help youth acquire a greater appreciation, respect and understanding of their racial identity, history and heritage, and a respect for other cultures. Career Development activities explore various career-paths, and how to prepare for them, and exposes participants to successful professionals. Recreational activities are offered to promote healthy lifestyles and opportunities to develop basic skills in a variety of sports and athletic activities. The Academic Curriculum provides basic support and tutorial assistance in reading and mathematics. It also addresses study habits, test preparation, developing a greater appreciation for school, and respecting teachers. Family Bonding activities emphasize the importance of developing positive family relationships and strong support systems, and maintaining effective lines of communication. School Bonding focuses on helping youth develop a greater attachment to school. CSU students serve as mentors and role models, provide academic support, and help teach the core curriculum. A four-week Summer Violence Awareness Institute, held at CSU, features a series of workshops on violence awareness and recreational activities. |