Caleb’s Story

Early indications about summer violence remain deeply disturbing. Shooting rates in Chicago and Cicero are at their highest level in decades (up 20% over two years). These are more than headlines to the staff and students who have lost friends this year. At ICI, we reject the idea that these circumstances are inevitable. We work to provide youth with an alternate way of living through mentorship and preaching the Good News.

Caleb is in his sophomore year of high school and has been attending ICI for six years. When he was in middle school, he was beaten (initiated) into an active gang. As he grew, Caleb continued attending and even bringing others to ICI. He developed a close mentoring relationship with some of ICI’s leaders.

“Caleb has always been open with me about almost everything. Similarly, I have always been open with him about where I thought his decisions would lead him. Often, I am the first person he calls when he needs to process anger or grief. He is an incredibly genuine person and can see that other people live differently, even if it’s hard for him to see a way out of gang life.”

Last year, a close friend of Caleb’s was shot and killed in a gang altercation. His mentor said, “That was a pivotal time, and I have seen Caleb’s growing desire to put distance between himself and that life. I recently testified at a probation hearing on his behalf, and he knows that I stay in touch with his probation officer. I have worked with him to find a job, and I’m proud of the steps he has taken in the right direction, including engaging in spiritual questions.”

Caleb’s story is still being written, and we don’t know where it will end, but we know that God can transform lives. We have seen it in many kids like Caleb throughout the year. Take Carlos, a former ICI kid with a similar upbringing. After leaving ICI, he ended up in prison, but during his time there, he was led to the Lord, and he is now a follower of Jesus.