Toward the end of 2016, as the level of gun violence in Chicago reached its highest levels in 20 years, a group of Chicago area business, faith, community, non-profit, civic and government leaders began to meet to explore the common question they asked themselves: Is there more that can be done to address the root causes of the current level of violence we are experiencing? Throughout the 6-month discovery process, the group found that many other key leaders were asking themselves that same question. The shared consensus proved to be that part of Chicago’s challenges exist because of the lack of communication amongst various racial, economic, cultural, faith and civic groups around the city. Through these conversations the desire to form a new non-profit organization grew and Together Chicago was born. Together Chicago is a 501(c)(3) that brings together local leaders with proven track records in business, community development, and faith community mobilization, to collaboratively create solutions to issues plaguing Chicago neighborhoods. Our approach is to leverage private sector initiative and expertise with existing programs of the City of Chicago, neighborhood organizations, and vibrant church communities, serving as a catalyst for lasting change. http://www.togetherchicago.com/