On July 22, the Southwest Organizing Project's (SWOP) Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) team transformed Gage Park into a vibrant gathering space for another successful Light in the Night event. Appropriately themed "Salsa in the Park," the evening brought neighbors, families, and young people together to strengthen relationships, enjoy one another's company, and continue building a safer, more connected community.
Light in the Night events are designed to create positive spaces where residents can gather, have fun, and connect with community violence intervention staff and local resources. By consistently bringing people together in welcoming environments, CP4P continues to foster trust and demonstrate that community safety begins with strong relationships.
Attendees enjoyed an evening filled with free food, friendly basketball games, community resources, and the lively sounds of a live band that kept the park energized throughout the event. The music encouraged people of all ages to dance, mingle, and celebrate the spirit of community that defines SWOP's work.
The evening also carried special meaning as it served as an appreciation event for recently retired CP4P Case Manager Enrique Pardo. After dedicating himself to supporting participants and helping advance CP4P's mission of reducing violence through relationship-building and intervention, Enrique returned to the park—not as a staff member, but as a valued member of the community—to show his continued support for the work he helped build.
His presence was a reminder that the impact of community violence intervention extends far beyond a person's time on staff. The relationships formed through years of service continue to strengthen neighborhoods, even after retirement.
As families shared meals, youth played basketball, neighbors connected with resources, and music filled Gage Park, the evening reflected everything Light in the Night strives to accomplish: creating spaces where people feel welcome, valued, and united. Events like Salsa in the Park demonstrate that investing in community, celebrating those who have served, and creating opportunities for positive connection remain powerful tools for building peace across the Southwest Side.
