COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT, DESIGNED FOR THE REST OF US
We don't think people are apathetic about civics. We think most folks are probably a lot like us - not sure where or how to start, or worse, feeling like the traditional "way in" isn't very welcoming.
So we set out to do things a little differently.
What We Do
The Southwest Collective was created in an Archer Heights basement in 2019. Born out of a need to connect with neighbors outside of the traditional means, such as a neighborhood watch or civic association, SWC quickly gained momentum by "meeting people where they're at" - and tailoring programs and outreach around the busy lifestyles of young families.
Our Work to Expand Food Access
Everyone's gotta eat, so that's a great place to get engaged
The OGs of mutual aid had this one 100% correct: if you help someone address an immediate need, like hunger, it frees up their focus. We've been feeding folks twice a week for five years, and we have learned a lot from each other.
Our Mutual Aid Work
Helping young families "find their village"
We started our popular Freebies for Families event in memory of Marlen Ochoa-Lopez, a young expectant mom who was tragically murdered while trying to obtain free baby clothes. This is a safe space for families to share with each other, arrange playdates and learn about resources available to them.
Our Work to Improve the Environment
Too many industrial parks. Not enough green space.
With so many semi trucks and factories embedded in our communities, it's critical to ensure we have a solid tree canopy. Since 2023, we have planted almost 900 trees across the southwest side, among many other important initiatives.
BOARd
of Directors
Mayra Avila, Board Chair
Adriana Vargas, Vice Chair
Jaime Groth Searle, Founder
Diane Ruiz, MBA,
Board Member
OUR
VISION
A southwest side where neighbors know each other, feel empowered to build their support network and are ready to “lead from where they live.”
