Tevin knows the exact date he began READI Chicago—May 21, 2018.

Before joining the anti-violence initiative, Tevin was on the streets and in and out of jail. He isn’t sure how many stints he has served, but knows it is more than five.

Tevin said it was rough growing up in West Garfield Park, surrounded by drug dealing and gang banging, and he fell into that lifestyle at an early age.

When a friend told Tevin about READI Chicago, he agreed, knowing he wanted to make a change and work toward something positive.

“I was interested in doing something better with my life, making better decisions,” Tevin said. “I needed to stop making the same mistakes over and over.”

Now, thanks to a transitional job and cognitive behavioral therapy, Tevin said what he is most proud of is himself.

“I’m proud of myself and what I’m doing to better myself and strive for a better life for me and my son,” Tevin said.

His mother is proud of him, as well. Tevin lives with her and his siblings and said his mom is thrilled with his new safe, consistent schedule.

“She’s happy for me,” Tevin said. “They’re all proud of me. It’s another chance and another experience. It helps keep me out of trouble.”

Produced by READI Chicago, with interviews recorded by StoryCorps, a national nonprofit whose mission is to provide Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share, and preserve the stories of our lives.

Below: Tevin and his job coach, Michelle