Vanessa Tanaka wants to launch a gun violence conversation that doesn't begin and end with gun legislation.

I did a lot of research to find organizations in Chicago that take more of a public health approach to the problem of violence," Tanaka said. "Their focus is on addressing some of the problems that contribute to gun violence — poverty, lack of jobs, lack of opportunities, housing, all of the social issues that come up in different communities. A lot of these groups have programs and outreach that have nothing to do with gun legislation but can directly influence gun violence."

The Catalyst for Change event takes place 7-9 p.m. Thursday at Harper Theater, 5238 S. Harper Ave., in Chicago. Light refreshments will be served, and a cash bar will be open, with all proceeds going to the attending organizations.