On May 7th, 2025, the Southwest Organizing Project’s (SWOP) Community Violence Intervention (CVI) team, Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P), demonstrated once again that their work extends far beyond responding to crisis situations. Hosting a vibrant community job fair at their office, the team brought together over a hundred community members eager to connect with local employers and resources that could open new doors for their futures.

The event welcomed major employers like Walgreens, Southwest Airlines, UPS, Rush Hospital, BMO Harris Bank, and many more. Each employer set up shop ready to engage directly with job seekers, offering on-the-spot information, applications, and next steps toward employment. Community members were encouraged to bring their resumes and cover letters, making it a valuable opportunity not just to network but to actively pursue job placements.

For SWOP’s CVI team, this job fair was about more than employment — it was about listening to what community members need to build safer, stronger neighborhoods. It was a testament to the heart of violence prevention work: making sure families and individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in their pursuit of better lives.

Events like these highlight the real meaning of community intervention — ensuring that people have access to the resources, opportunities, and relationships that help build pathways to safety, stability, and success.

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