It’s hard not to feel helpless when it comes to what to do about mass shootings and gun violence, but it’s past time that parents make their voices heard.
Consider donating to or getting involved in organizations focused on gun safety. We’ve rounded up groups both nationwide and in Chicagoland to help you get involved with the movement.
Looking for more resources on the impact of gun violence on children? Visit our A Concerned Parent’s Guide to Gun Violence and Gun Safety.
The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence
Brady takes a three-pronged approach to combating gun violence: changing laws, changing the gun industry and changing culture.
Everytown for Gun Safety
Known as the largest gun violence prevention organization in America, Everytown employs an evidence-based, neighborhood-by-neighborhood model. It classifies Illinois — where 1,505 people on average die a year by guns — as having some of the strong gun laws in the country, including background checks on all gun sales, an Extreme Risk law, and laws keeping guns away from domestic abusers. Guns are the leading cause of death for kids and teens, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.
Moms Demand Action
This grassroots effort to stem gun violence has a chapter in every state. To learn more, in Chicagoland, the Chicago Northwest Side group meets July 9, a South Suburbs group meets July 27 and the Humboldt Park/Logan Square group meets July 28.
Giffords
Giffords is led by former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords with a mission to shift culture, mobilize voters and challenge injustice.
Sandy Hook Promise
This non-profit organization is run by several of the family members of the students killed in Newtown, Connecticut, and their goal is to teach young people to spot the signs and prevent gun violence.
Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions
This center at Johns Hopkins University uses rigorous research methods to develop equitable programs and policies that thwart gun violence.
Violence Policy Center
Violence Policy Center uses research, investigation, analysis and advocacy to fight against gun violence in America.
March For Our Lives
This youth-led organization amplifies survivors’ voices and mobilizes communities with a commitment to a future free from gun violence.
Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Alliance for Gun Responsibility engages experts, civic leaders and citizens for evidence-based solutions and to promote a culture of gun ownership that balances rights and responsibilities.
Chicago CRED
Chicago CRED (Creating Real Economic Destiny) works toward one goal to reduce gun violence by working with individuals and communities most impacted by the issue.
Mothers/Men Against Senseless Killings
Founder and mother Tamar Manasseh started MASK in 2015 to help build stronger communities to prevent gun and gang violence.
Communities Partnering 4 Peace
Communities Partnering 4 Peace (CP4P) works in 22 Chicago neighborhoods most affected by gun violence. In those communities, the Metropolitan Family Services organization provides violence prevention resources and Light in the Night free community events to create safer public spaces.
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