At the end of August, the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) launched a Youth One-to-One Relational Campaign designed to build deeper connections with young people between the ages of 18–24. This campaign is rooted in SWOP’s commitment to listening first—understanding the needs, struggles, and aspirations of youth in Southwest Chicago communities—and creating space to rebuild youth power and voice.

One-to-one relational meetings are an organizing tool that make space for intentional conversations where people engage in public life—sharing their story, values, concerns, with the hope of moving one another to action. These meetings are not about asking for something immediately, but about building trust and uncovering the motivations that drive people. Over time, they help identify new leaders and create the foundation for collective action.

Through the campaign, organizers and volunteers are committing to intentional, consistent outreach by having at least one one-to-one relational meeting with a young person in the community a week, identifying recurring themes and potential leaders and holding themselves accountable to the young people they are connecting with through follow up.

These conversations aren’t just check-ins; they are the groundwork for long-term organizing. By slowing down to listen and engage personally, SWOP hopes to uncover new leaders, strengthen community bonds, and support youth in shaping the future of their neighborhoods.

‍