Rapid Employment and Development Initiative (READI) Chicago — a multi-partner initiative that aims to connect men at highest risk of being involved in gun violence with jobs and therapy — released outcomes today of nearly 2,500 men referred to the program.
Prior to being referred, 35% of the men had previously been shot, and 98% had previously been arrested. Over 20 months, participants were found to have had 63% fewer arrests and 19% fewer victimizations for shootings and homicides.
Harris Policy's Crime Lab and Inclusive Economy Lab conducted a randomized controlled trial, the largest of its kind, of the program, which has recently been lifted up by Attorney General Merrick Garland as a model approach to reduce gun violence.
