The Chicago Community Trust established The Young Leaders Fund in 1994 as a way to help create the city's next generation of philanthropic and civic leadership.  

About 50 young professionals join the fund each year and contribute $750 to the endowment. Member contributions are leveraged with endowment interest, doubling YLF's yearly grant making.  Donations are tax deductible.  Member contributions are eligible for most company matching gift programs, which increases the impact of The Youngs Leaders Fund grants even further. 

Just as important as the financial contributions they make, The Young Leaders Fund members also donate their time and energy. They visit grant seekers, evaluate applicants’ leadership and structure, community impact and future goals.

The personal investment pays off.  YLF members evaluate and prioritize community issues and needs in deciding which organizations will receive grants. 

The Chicago Community Trust works with these emerging philanthropists every step of the way. The Trust also offers regular education events featuring community leaders, as well as Trust experts. Topics range from redeveloping Chicago’s neighborhoods to the policy implications of changes in public education.