Loyola University Chicago

Building Resilience Against Violence Engagement (BRAVE)

School of Social Work

Vietnamese Association of Illinois ( FORMER PARTNER )

The Vietnamese Association of Illinois ( Former Partner ) serves as the lead agency in partnership with Loyola University Chicago’s School of Social Work for the BRAVE project. VAI aims to provide youth from the Uptown and surrounding Chicago neighborhoods with culturally relevant programming, enriching experiences, and the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with agency mentors and their peers. 

Programming has been designed to include participants attending field trips, workshops, and various activities out of VAI’s agency in Uptown, Chicago. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, for the safety of its program participants and staff members, VAI has transitioned to providing the same level of engaging programming via a digital platform. Through online quiz platforms, virtual “field trip” videos, and guest workshop leaders, VAI has maintained consistent participation of many BRAVE students during these challenging times.

If you have questions or concerns about VAI’s BRAVE  programming, or would like to learn more, please contact Rickele Coy, BRAVE Site Coordinator, at rickele.coy@hnvi.org

Check out some of our current programming below!