SisterNet^® was launched in 1998 in response to youth input about the need for girls to have a safe space around issues related to gender based violence.  SisterNet^® gives voice to those most affected by violence and empowers young women to take an active part in ending violence against women and girls, while building a statewide leadership network.

SisterNet^® Chapters throughout the state of Illinois work collaboratively with community partners on an annual basis to conduct a community assessment and plan and implement a violence prevention activity. ICVP Organizers work closely with each chapter to ensure the chapter has access to resources needed to be successful including violence prevention, advocacy, and leadership training.

SisterNet^® Chapters can be sponsored and developed in an agency, school, community, region, or county as a membership group or project through which young people can work in partnership with adults and network with their peers to become educated and involved in a range of peacemaking and violence prevention activities.