On October 29th, 2026, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) brought community members together for a Día de los Muertos celebration in partnership with member institution Sawyer Elementary School. SWOP's Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) team, Parent Mentor Program and Health team joined Sawyer to host an afternoon filled with fun, food, creativity and opportunities for families to connect with one another.

With Sawyer Elementary also hosting a Halloween Trunk or Treat just across the parking lot, students and families arrived in droves to take part in the festivities. The event offered something for everyone, creating a welcoming space where children could enjoy the holiday while families had the opportunity to spend time together and build relationships with their neighbors.

Throughout the celebration, community members enjoyed a variety of activities, including a bouncy castle, Lotteria, face painting and a cupcake-making station where children could decorate their own sweet treats. A Día de los Muertos display also offered a special opportunity to recognize and celebrate the traditions and cultural significance of the holiday. Alongside the activities, free food was available for families to enjoy as they gathered and celebrated.

Hundreds of community members came out to participate, filling the space with laughter, excitement and connection. The celebration served as a reminder of the importance of creating opportunities for families to come together, enjoy themselves and strengthen the relationships that make a community thrive.

A mother attending the event with her children shared this about the event. "I love when the community comes together to create things like this for the kids. My kids were excited for the Trunk or Treat and this is like the cherry on top. I know it's safe here, I live just up the street and it feels good to know we have stuff like this right where we are."

As SWOP continues its work across the Southwest Side, events like this reflect the organization's commitment to building relationships, fostering community connection and creating welcoming spaces where families can come together. By partnering with member institutions like Sawyer Elementary, SWOP continues to strengthen the bonds that help build a more connected and vibrant community.

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