On August 13th, 2026, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) gathered to celebrate an important milestone for leaders in the community who are working toward earning their GEDs. The celebration was an opportunity to recognize the determination, effort, and progress participants have demonstrated throughout their educational journeys—and to encourage them to keep pushing forward until they reach the finish line.
The opportunity for these GED classes grew out of SWOP’s ongoing Economic Development and Employment organizing. Through conversations with leaders about their goals, challenges, and aspirations, Community Organizer, Joel Rodriguez and Employment Organizer, Quabeeny Daniels, identified education and workforce development as important areas where SWOP could help create new opportunities for the people they organize alongside.
Those conversations eventually led to a collaboration between SWOP and Kennedy-King College to provide GED classes for SWOP leaders. SWOP’s anti-violence team, CP4P, played an integral role in recruitment for this cohort and case management, ensuring accountability and the importance of “crossing the finish line”. The partnership has given participants an opportunity to pursue an important educational goal while receiving support from organizations invested in their personal and professional growth.
Quabeeny Daniels had this to share regarding the GED classes. “This GED cohort reflects what can happen when people are given the opportunity, support, and encouragement to pursue their goals. Many of our students faced challenges that interrupted their education years ago, but they haven't given up on themselves. We've watched parents, workers, and community leaders make time to study, complete assignments, and take exams despite busy lives. Their determination is inspiring. One of our students is now just one exam away from earning their GED, and that's a testament to the hard work they've put in every step of the way.”
For many of the participants, reaching this point has required significant commitment. Balancing everyday responsibilities while continuing to attend classes and work toward a GED is no small accomplishment. The weight of earning a GED is felt through the entire cohort; students aware of the opportunities available to them from going to college and vocational training to better employment opportunities. Each step forward represents the determination of people who are investing in themselves and working toward greater opportunities for their futures.
The August 13th celebration served as both a recognition of that hard work and a reminder that the journey is not over yet. SWOP celebrated how far participants have come while encouraging them to continue attending classes, studying, and supporting one another as they work toward earning their GEDs.
Through organizing, relationship-building, and partnerships like the one with Kennedy-King College, SWOP continues to work alongside community leaders to identify barriers and create pathways toward greater economic opportunity. For the leaders working toward their GEDs, this celebration was a reminder that their progress matters—and that their community is behind them as they take the next steps toward reaching their goals.
