GASC Capacity Building Network Launches First Cohort of CBO Participants
We are thrilled to announce the official launch of the GASC Capacity Building Network! On December 9th, we celebrated the inaugural cohort of our Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) at a special Orientation and Kickoff Event, bringing together organizational leaders and program partners for a day of connection, learning, and shared purpose.
Celebrating Our First Cohort of CBOs
We are proud to highlight the inaugural cohort of organizations participating in The Network! These organizations represent a wide range of neighborhoods, missions, and approaches to violence prevention, all united by a commitment to community safety and sustainable impact.
Breakthrough Ministries | Englewood Heroes | Envision Community Services | Expanded Mental Health Services of Chicago NFP | Fierce Women of Faith, Inc. | GRO Community | H.O.P.E. Culture Chicago Inc. | Hug A Child NFP | Lawndale Christian Legal Center | Lifeline to Hope, Inc. | New Eclipse Community Alliance | No Brother Left Behind | Project H.O.O.D. | Puerto Rican Cultural Center | Reestablishing Hope Inc. | Roseland Ceasefire Project Inc. | SGA Youth and Family Services | Sinai Health System | Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP) | Strengthening Our Community Alliance | Target Area | The Firehouse Community Art Center | Think Outside Da Block | Together Chicago, Inc. | Unstacked Inc. | Urban ROOTS Alliance | What About Us Charitable Enterprises | YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago | Youth Crossroads
The Kickoff Event
The December 9th Orientation and Kickoff Celebration marked the official start of the program. Over 100 people attended, including 29 CBOs—with 31 CBOs having RSVP’d, resulting in an impressive 95% attendance. All GASC partners were also in attendance.
The event included:
Welcome remarks from GASC and UCAN leadership
Introductions to The Network’s resources
Opportunities to connect with fellow CBO leaders
Photos from the event showcase the energy, collaboration, and commitment of this first cohort.
About The Network
The GASC Capacity Building Network provides free, customized capacity-building support for small and mid-sized organizations working in community violence intervention (CVI) across the Chicago region. By providing tailored training, technical assistance, and access to vetted SMEs, The Network helps organizations strengthen internal systems, manage grants, track performance, and enhance long-term sustainability.
“UCAN is excited to partner with GASC as the anchor organization for the NETWORK,” said Christa Hamilton, UCAN President and CEO. “This collaboration equips local organizations with the tools and resources they need to create lasting impact.”