Chicago Expo Unites Community to Prevent Gun Violence

The Chicago-based nonprofit Strides for Peace will host its third annual Gun Violence Prevention Expo on Thursday, November 20, at UIC’s Dorin Forum (725 W Roosevelt Rd) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, with registration available online.

This year’s event, themed “Bridging Divides, Building Safer Futures,” will bring together community organizations, civic leaders, and residents working to advance collaboration and holistic solutions to combat gun violence across Chicago. The theme highlights the organization’s ongoing mission to strengthen unity among sectors to create lasting change and safer neighborhoods.

The Expo is supported by key sponsors, including Ascension FBO Network, Brady Foundation, Cook County Justice Advisory Council, and Omedus. Attendees will have the opportunity to join expert panel discussions, youth-focused breakout sessions, and networking events aimed at connecting leaders in violence prevention.

Among this year’s youth-centered sessions are CPD’s Use of Force Model, Project Unloaded, The Shine Hope Company, Stop the Bleed, and the Youth Violence Conflict Resolution Initiative. A full-day resource fair will showcase interactive exhibits that encourage cross-sector engagement and practical collaboration.

Confirmed participating organizations include One Aim Illinois, A Knock At Midnight, Crushers Club, River City Community Development Center, CHAMPS Male Mentoring Program, Legacy Disciple, E.Y.E. Lead Foundation Inc., Chicago Defender Charities, Saint Sabina / Purpose Over Pain, BUILD Inc., Youth Guidance, Coach House, MonkeyPod, Hope Center Foundation, Lawndale Christian Legal Center, William Everett, What’s Your Forté Foundation, Blackstone Bicycle Works, and the Chicago Public Library.

In collaboration with Kids First Chicago, this year’s Expo will also offer parent-focused programming designed to help families better understand public school policies, data, and engagement opportunities.

Community-based organizations offering tools and resources can still register for a booth at the event. Booth participants include career development programs, advocacy groups, funders, training providers, and innovative program models, all aimed at driving collective impact and supporting Chicago’s communities.

Now in its third year, the Gun Violence Prevention Expo continues to strengthen a citywide framework for collaboration, connecting leaders, organizations, and residents with shared strategies and a unified goal — to end gun violence in Chicago.