On August 8th, 2024, the Southwest Organizing Project's (SWOP) Community Violence Intervention (CVI) team, Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) in collaboration with Circesteem's Back to School event, hosted a "Hoop, Don't Shoot" basketball game at Senka Park. This collaborative effort brought together community members in a day filled with engaging activities designed to promote safety, well-being, and a sense of community. Attendees enjoyed a variety of free services, including information on local resources, school supplies giveaways, and performances from Circesteem’s talented circus performers.

By activating the public space, SWOP and Circesteem establish a safe zone where families come together, interact with one another, and feel supported by their community. The circus performances added a unique flair to the event, captivating both children and adults while reinforcing the message that public spaces are places of joy and safety. By organizing basketball games and other communal activities, SWOP’s CVI team created an environment where families gather without fear, contributing to the broader goal of reducing violence and promoting peace in the neighborhood. Senka Park was used to highlight how Southwest neighborhoods can be used for recreation and connection, empowering its community members.

In addition to the entertainment, the event was a hub of information, providing details on free resources and local services available to families. These resources were essential for assisting families with their back-to-school needs, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the upcoming academic year. For many, this event helped relieve the financial burden of back-to-school shopping, while also reinforcing the importance of collective responsibility in creating safe environments where families can thrive.

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