Sharing Stories to Inspire Change

Get Inspired: #ChooseHope

Share Stories to Inspire Change. In the wake of unimaginable tragedy like gun violence, it can be hard to see past the darkness of the moment. Yet, organizations and communities like Strides for Peace have made it their mission to address the problem with empathy, support, and most of all, hope. We invite you to immerse yourselves in their #ChooseHope mini film-series in which they highlight other organizations choosing to give hope to communities in unique ways that address the root causes of large issues like gun violence.

Take for instance their feature on Contextos, an organization with the MAAFA Redemption Project that teaches its participants how to become the authors of their own stories in order to heal and ultimately build a better path forward. Because as one of their directors put it, “to be seen and heard by someone else–especially when we’re navigating complex traumas or surviving things that we sometimes don’t share–is an incredible act of hope.”.

Let’s Talk

After watching how Contextos brings hope to the community of Garfield Park, use the questions below to kick-start a great conversation with your family today:

• Why do you think it’s important to share your own personal stories with others?

• What can we learn when we listen to others’ stories about their experiences?

• What does it mean to be an active listener? How can you be better listener when others speak?

• Bonus! Think of an experience you’ve never told anyone before and write it down in a journal. If you feel comfortable, share it with a family member or friend.

Do Something: Get Involved

Personal security is a fundamental human right. Strides for Peace’s is committed to increasing the collective impact of community organizations working to end gun violence, save lives and build a stronger Chicago.

Explore the Strides for Peace website to learn about innovative organizations in Chicago working to create safer communities. Find an organization that inspires you and do more research. What is makes the organization unique? Why is their mission important? How can you get involved?

Share your findings with family and friends and start a movement. Together, we can build a safter communities for all.

Community Connections:

Sharing Stories and Cultivating Hope: One of the best and most effective ways to combat gun violence is through building strong communities. The City of Chicago’s Community Safety Coordination Center is dedicated to ensuring our communities stay strong by providing resources and opportunities to citizens that address the various causes of gun violence. They will be hosting safe events for children and teens and launching an online safety portal for block clubs, associations and other organizations to access tips and tools. 

They also build awareness about gun violence through projects like their interactive walking trail, The Ripple Effect, which highlights the impact had on families and communities when gun violence occurs. Visit their website for more details and check out one of their three trails anytime this summer, as it will be closing after Labor Day.