Metropolitan Peace Initiatives and Communities Partnering 4 Peace Join the Chicago Bears for an Exclusive Training Camp Experience

The crowd gathers at the Chicago Bears Training Camp on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

Metropolitan Peace Initiatives (MPI) and Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) recently had the exciting opportunity to attend the Chicago Bears training camp, getting an exclusive look at the players in action, previewing the latest gear, and enjoying a day packed with high energy, connection, and fun.

MPI and CP4P were invited as a part of the NFL Inspire Change initiative, which supports organizations working to advance education, economic opportunity, police and community relations, and criminal justice reform. Since 2017, the Inspire Change Social Justice Working Group has selected more than 50 nonprofit organizations nationwide for grants. MPI is honored to be among those selected, a reflection of the life-saving and life-changing work being done in 28 communities across Chicago through CP4P.

For many MPI staff members, this was more than just a day at training camp with their favorite team. It was a moment of recognition and celebration.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime,” said Steve Perkins, Director of Field Instruction. “A lot of Bears fans would love to be here, and we are privileged enough because of the work we are doing. To be here as Bears fans, it is truly a wonderful opportunity.”

Steve Perkins, Director of Field Instruction, watches as Chicago Bears players join the field to practice.

Rodney Phillips, Associate Director of the Crisis Prevention and Response Unit (CPRU), echoed that pride, saying, “It is a great thing, especially for me being a Chicago Bears fan. But more than that, it is seeing the connection with the athletes and their spirit.”

Being at the camp and away from the daily demands of frontline work offered a moment to reflect, reset, and feel celebrated.

“I think it is really awesome that they have us coming out,” said Crystal Swenson, Clinical Program Supervisor. “It shows the community a different side of things. Not just through words or programs in the city, but through meaningful experiences like this.”

The day was filled with fun, but at its core, it was about honoring the work being done to make Chicago safer and stronger. MPI is grateful to the Chicago Bears and the Inspire Change initiative for opening their doors and recognizing the people working every day to bring healing and hope to their own communities.

We are proud to stand on the field and in our neighborhoods. For peace, for progress, and for each other.

Watch our recap of the day here.

Watch our commercial announcing our grant with Inspire Change.