Haven partners occupied various street corners across the city to deliver a compelling anti-violence message in anticipation of Fourth of July Weekend. Coordinated by the CPS Office of Faith Based Initiatives and CPD, this day of summer safety awareness emphasizes the pledge of Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s “Put Down the Guns” campaign, which is aimed at keeping children safe and free from gun violence. Students from schools the city shared their ideas on how they are making this summer in Chicago a safe one.

Chief Officer of Family and Community Engagement (FACE) for CPS Phil Hampton, Reverend Renaldo Kyles, director of Faith Based Initiatives for CPS, Pastors John and Ilana Zayas, Grace and Peace Community Church, and hundreds of community members joined together to promote the anti-violence message.

Since 2009, Save Haven programs have engaged tens of thousands of students through activities and programs available within their own neighborhoods to eradicate bullying and instill practices to combat youth violence by engaging students in activities and educational workshops. The program is offered at 110 sites across the city, offering free programs that help keep school-aged children off the streets and engaged in educational activities throughout the summer. For more details, please visit: cps.edu/SafeHaven.