On August 10th, 2024, the Southwest Organizing Project's (SWOP) safety team, Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P), joined forces with member institution TGI Movement (TGi) for their annual Back to School Block Party. Held at 62nd and Campbell, right outside of Da Oasis, TGi's headquarters, the event was a celebration of community, youth empowerment, and preparation for the coming school year. Families gathered to receive free school supplies and enjoy complimentary food, all while engaging with presenters that provided crucial information on local services and resources. The block party buzzed with energy, as live music and entertainment filled the air, setting the stage for an afternoon of fun, learning, and connection.
The event also featured live art displays, including a graffiti battle that showcased local talent and fostered creativity among attendees. Basketball games, part of CP4P’s “Hoop, Don’t Shoot” initiative, were a major highlight, as they brought together youth and community members for friendly competition. These games are part of CP4P’s broader effort to offer alternatives to violence by promoting sports and collaboration between different communities on Chicago’s Southwest side. By activating public spaces through such activities, the event reinforced the idea that safe, inclusive environments are vital for community wellness and growth.
TGI Movement, a non-profit youth-led organization, played a pivotal role in the event’s success. Known for its commitment to empowering young people, TGi focuses on creating safe and inclusive spaces for youth to thrive. At its core, the organization works to dismantle Dream Deserts, a term used to describe the circumstances youth face when they are unable to follow their passions due to a lack of support, resources, knowledge, or difficult life circumstances. By offering mentorship, guidance, and access to opportunities, TGi helps young people bridge the gap between their dreams and reality.
The Back-to-School Block Party was a testament to TGi’s mission, as it provided youth and their families with not only the materials they need for the upcoming school year but also a sense of community and belonging. Through live art, music, basketball, and resource-sharing, the event became a powerful symbol of the change that can happen when organizations like SWOP, CP4P, and TGi come together to uplift their neighborhoods and inspire the next generation to pursue their dreams.
