About Strides for Peace
Strides for Peace envisions a Chicago where all can thrive and live free of the fear of gun violence.
Our Mission
Our mission is to increase the collective impact of community organizations working to end gun violence, save lives and build a stronger Chicago.
We believe that everyone has a stake in ending gun violence and that communities have the answers. Our work is centered around harnessing the power of community organizations and providing new pathways for people who care to get involved.
Our Approach
Our strategy is founded on the understanding that community organizations and grassroots leaders are one of our city's greatest assets, but too often are left out of decision- and policy-making, resulting in approaches and narratives that miss opportunities for impact, equity and change. We view these structural exclusions as creating investment and proximity gaps, and our work is centered on closing these gaps by providing funding, field development, advocacy and civic engagement opportunities.
Connect. Commit. Contribute. Change.
Be part of building peace in Chicago.
About RAGV
WHAT: The Race Against Gun Violence (RAGV) celebrates the life-changing work of community organizations and provides a dynamic platform for people who care about ending gun violence to connect and get involved. Since 2021, more than 50 nonprofits joined RAGV, receiving a host of benefits including 10 complimentary registrations and 100% of donations.
VISION: We believe all of Chicagoland has a stake in ending gun violence and that by working together, we can build a city where all can thrive, free from the fear of gun violence.
GOALS: Central to RAGV is the goal to build capacity, promote collaboration and celebrate hope. More than a single event, RAGV is the rallying point to raise funds for and awareness about what is being done to end gun violence and build Chicago's future. It is an opportunity to change the narrative about Chicago, call concerned citizens to action and bring out the best in our city.
FUNDRAISE: 100% of funds raised go directly to community organizations. Everyone -- participating nonprofits, runners, walkers and volunteers -- are encouraged to use RAGV as a platform to support building peace in Chicago. RAGV provides a catalyst for organizations and individuals to connect directly to communities and get involved in a wide array of options. We've built a platform that is completely customizable and want all our participants to take part in whatever way works best for them.
Share why you're walking or running in the Race Against Gun Violence on social media! #RAGV2025
Learn more about amazing nonprofits in Chicago working to end gun violence! Follow #StridesForPeace #OneStepAtATime
