Illinois Department of Human Services Assistant Secretary of Firearm Violence Prevention Chris Patterson and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Chief of Safety and Security Jadine Chou joined community organizations, students, youth, and families to promote extensive summer program opportunities being offered to Chicago’s youth aimed at increasing safety and engagement. This summer, young people and families can access intensive wrap-around programming and paid employment in their own neighborhoods through community organizations that are funded through the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and CPS. Chicago families and young people can find summer opportunities near them by visiting http://dhs.illinois.gov/rpsayouth/. IDHS and CPS are proud to launch a new program entitled “Back to Our Future” to address the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth and reduce firearm violence. This program builds upon the success of CPS’ Choose to Change program with a focus on the highest risk youth. IDHS is also offering nearly 2,300 summer jobs paying at least $15 per hour to all youth, regardless of circumstance, through the Illinois Youth Investment Program.