JOLIET – State Senator Rachel Venture has announced that five organizations in the 43rd District have received funding from the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) through the Restore, Reinvest, and Renew (R3) grant program. Thanks to Ventura’s efforts, over $1.2 million was awarded to local organizations in District 43.
“Systemic racism and historic disinvestment continues to plague our communities”, said Ventura (D-Joliet). “These organizations are doing the hard work on the frontlines of our most vulnerable communities, and this funding will ensure vital services such as mentorship, job training and tailored programming reaches those who need it.”
The R3 Program is funded by 25% of state tax revenues from adult-use cannabis sales, as established by the Cannabis Regulation and Trust Act. R3 grants are specifically designed to empower communities most affected by the long-term consequences of systemic racism and the war on drugs. A total of $50.8 million was awarded with about $35 million awarded to organizations that support community reentry from the justice system, economic development, and civil legal aid, and about $15 million was awarded to organizations dedicated to youth development and violence prevention.
“The R3 program is the backbone of our commitment to equity and restoration,” said ICJIA Executive Director Delrice Adams. “Black and Brown communities have been profoundly impacted by systemic disinvestment, the cycles of violence, chronic unemployment, and the overuse of incarceration. These funds are not just an investment. They are a vital catalyst for the healing, stability, and future prosperity that these families and residents deserve.”
The following organizations in Ventura’s district received R3 funding:
- Black Lives Matter Will County - $316,177
- O.C.O.U.S - $210,785
- George Werden Buck Boys & Girls Club - $108,906
- Give Something Back - $210,785
- New Day Employment - $359,520
Since the R3 Program’s inception in 2021, ICJIA has awarded more than $290 million to organizations in communities across Illinois.
