Young Voices Lead the Way at Powerful Violence Prevention Summit

Youth leaders hosted a panel discussion at Breakthrough Urban Ministries on Thursday, June 12, 2025 for other Chicago youth leaders invested in reducing community violence in their neighborhoods.

Nearly 50 youth leaders from across Chicago gathered at Breakthrough Urban Ministries on Thursday, June 12, 2025, for an engaging community conversation aimed at inspiring youth-led solutions for violence prevention. Hosted in partnership with Breakthrough, Youth Guidance, Project Unloaded and North Lawndale College Prep Peace Warriors, the evening’s program sought to empower the very young people who are most impacted by community violence.

Opening the evening was a screening of WTTW’s Firsthand: Peacekeepers documentary series, which spotlights the struggles and triumphs of five Chicago violence interrupters. What followed was an open and honest dialogue about community safety, the impact of social media, and the urgent need for accessible spaces for young people to just be.

“We need more opportunities to do things. More programs instead of just going outside,” Tyreka Hopewell, a youth panelist, said.

“We keep us safe, not guns,” said Olivia Brown from Project Unloaded, echoing a sentiment that resonated deeply throughout the night.

Damien Morris, Chief Program Officer for Breakthrough’s Violence Prevention team, honored the courage of the young people in attendance. “I’m here to give you your flowers,” Morris said. “You are keeping the peace.”

During breakout discussions, young people collaborated and shared powerful visions on how to reshape narratives and shift mindsets toward peace. Attendees shared a free community meal, built new connections, and left with not just inspiration, but a roadmap for action.