MPI Field Manager Nyedra Turner Says Women Are Vital to Community Violence Intervention
Metropolitan Peace Initiatives is proud to celebrate the life and work of women in community violence intervention (CVI) this Women’s History Month.
As a woman with nearly ten years of outreach experience, Nyedra Turner has a special vantage point into the value and needs of women in the field. She sees women as vital to community violence intervention: “Women are not just participants but critical leaders and nurturers within our communities. We often serve as the backbone, maintaining relationships and providing essential support to those affected by violence. Our insights and experiences are invaluable in crafting effective strategies that respond to community needs. As caregivers, advocates, and organizers, women bring unique perspectives that strengthen our efforts for meaningful change.”
Turner, affectionately known as Nyke, currently serves as a Field Manager at Metropolitan Peace Initiatives, in a zone that encompasses the vibrant neighborhoods that ONE Northside and the Alliance of Local Service Organizations (ALSO) serve (Rogers Park, Albany Park, Uptown, Avondale, Belmont Cragin, and Humboldt Park). “My mission revolves around cultivating connections within the community and supporting vital programs aimed at reducing violence in our areas,” says Nyke.
Nyke was born and raised in the heart of East Garfield Park, which she still calls home. “Growing up in my community, I began engaging in outreach work on my own,” she says, “not even knowing that such an effort existed formally. I facilitated block club parties, organized peace marches, coordinated holiday giveaways, and hosted various community events. This grassroots involvement ignited a passion within me to pursue a career in the violence prevention field.”
Her first role as an official Outreach Worker was with Breakthrough Urban Ministries, and during that time, she also attended and graduated from the Metropolitan Peace Academy as a part of Outreach Cohort 2. “Initially, I was the only female on Breakthrough’s outreach team, but my dedication and passion for this work led to significant growth in my career, “ she shares.
After progressing from an Outreach Worker to a Supervisor to Associate Director, Turner joined Metropolitan Peace Initiatives as a Field Manager. In her role, Turner works closely with partners throughout Communities Partnering 4 Peace to foster unity and healing in Chicago’s most at-risk neighborhoods. Turner also recruits team members who embody the CP4P mission and attends monthly meetings with partner organizations to align efforts.
“To truly empower women in CVI,” says Turner, “we must prioritize increased representation and leadership opportunities in decision-making roles. While progress has been made, it is essential that women not only participate but lead initiatives that tackle violence and foster healing.”
“My vision for women in CVI embraces a stronger emphasis on collaboration and the establishment of support systems that uplift one another. Changing societal perceptions of women’s roles in these vital spaces is crucial, alongside securing funding for programs led by women or designed specifically to empower them.”
Turner also emphasizes the need for trauma-informed care for women in the field: “We must ensure that mental health support is readily available for women directly impacted by violence, giving them access to resources that facilitate recovery and rebuilding their lives.”
“I dream of a future where women are recognized not just as contributors but as essential drivers of change in their communities, “ says Turner. “Women should feel empowered to voice their opinions and spearhead initiatives that promote safer, more connected neighborhoods. Together, we can forge significant strides toward positive change in the landscape of community violence intervention.”
Turner’s great amount of care for her community and dedication to her work are evident in everything she does. It is clear when she walks in a room that many admire her and call her a friend. Of her impact, Turner says, “I am excited to continue making a positive impact in my community and contributing to the fight for peace and equity. I take immense pride in our work and remain dedicated to our mission of building stronger, safer communities.”
“Through our collective efforts, I am confident that we can pave the way for a brighter future where safety, empowerment, and hope coexist for every individual.”
Listen to Nyke’s episode on our podcast, Streets, Beatz & Peace.