Programs

What Do These Symbols Mean?

Transformed lives, transformed families, transformed communities—that is the goal of what we call "life-on-life" ministry. As you look through our website, you'll notice icons that categorize the areas of service for each of our programs and resources, and how they connect to our mission, vision, and model of ministry.  We hope they will give you a better understanding of GRIP and what we stand for. 

We're striving to create a network of support for our youth, not simply by serving them and their families in the home, but also by partnering with local churches in our outreach programs, by providing practical ministry resources, and by having a presence in the public schools, where our youth spend the majority of their time. Each of our programs work together strategically for holistic impact.

"Life on Life" ministry is not just what we do—it's who we are. Will you partner with us? Get involved as a volunteer, prayer partner, or financial supporter today.
SLAM

Areas Of Service:

SLAM is a high-energy sports and team-building outreach program that runs every Monday night.Throughout the year, hundreds of youth come to SLAM ready for an exciting evening of creative games, Christian hip-hop music, drama, video, Bible teaching, small group discussion, pizza, and lots of hugs. SLAM creates the perfect environment for our army of adult volunteers to start building meaningful, "life-on-life" relationships with our teens.
Miracle Basketball League

Areas of Service:

Miracle Basketball League (MBL) is a highly competitive, six-week summer basketball league that culminates in a two-day, double-elimination tournament. MBL serves more than 250 young men from 25 communities across the city of Chicago. On Tuesday and Thursday nights, teenagers from rival neighborhoods come together to play basketball in a safe and loving environment. Prior to their game each night, teams gather together to hear godly men from their neighborhoods share their testimonies and offer encouragement from God's Word. For complete league details, including fees and registration deadlines, view the MBL Handbill.
GRIP The School

Areas of Service:

GRIP The School (GTS) is a program dedicated to assisting Chicago's under-resourced, underachieving, and violence-filled high schools—leveraging youth/mentor relationships to create a safer and more effective learning environment for our teens.  
Streetlights

Areas of Service:

Streetlights is the world's first urban audio Bible—word-for-word Scripture set to hip-hop beats. Our desire is that people of all literacy levels would be able to hear, understand, and internalize the Word of God. A massive undertaking, we are producing Streetlights in thematic sections of Scripture accompanied by music videos, written curriculum, and more.
Legacy Conference

Areas of Service:

Attracting roughly 1,000 attendees from across the country, the Legacy Conference equips those that are serious about being disciples of Christ to make disciples for Christ in their local communities and churches. With workshops, outreach events, and nightly concerts, the annual three-day gathering draws ministers, national recording artists, and passionate young Christian adults for biblical training and networking with like-minded urban leaders.   
Urban Youth Network

Areas of Service:

The Urban Youth Network (UYN) exists to provide support, relationships, and ministry partnerships for urban youth workers throughout Chicago. In addition, UYN supports Learning Communities—monthly gatherings for youth workers to discuss a book selection, enjoy great food, play, pray, laugh, share deeply, and more. The heart of this project is to help leaders grow spiritually, live accountably, and to experience community.