From the Archives: 2015 – Chicago Women in Philanthropy

March is a month dedicated to celebrating the drive and accomplishments of women. For three Trust staff members, one organization stands out by offering empowering opportunities for women in philanthropy to flourish and uplift one another. Chicago Women in Philanthropy (CWIP), an organization that the Trust regularly sponsors, builds a community of women in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors who advocate for women and girls. This Women’s History Month, three Trust staff who have been actively involved with CWIP, Kim Bolton, Adriana Viteri, and Molly Rand, reflect on the committees and programs that have left an impact on their personal and professional growth. 

A Diverse Community

CWIP is made up of a diverse group of women, which enriches both learning and programming. The organization encourages individuals at various stages in their career and from different backgrounds to build resources and share knowledge. Kim, Molly, and Adriana participated in mentorship programs to build relationships with women and girls with varying levels of experience but a shared desire to learn and grow. As a mentee, Adriana broadened her network and community of support while improving professional skills like public speaking. Molly praised the program as “extraordinary,” and “really well curated and beneficial to both mentor and mentee.” For Kim, watching her fourth-grade mentee grow from shy to an outgoing and energetic young girl was an “incredible experience.”  

An Informed Network

CWIP’s diverse community offers its members opportunities not just to share skills and experiences, but also to build knowledge of issues in the philanthropic sector. The organization hosts multiple opportunities for networking and professional development, including the Annual Luncheon, co-sponsored by the Trust. At these events, members connect with donors, nonprofits, and grant making professionals through various workshops and panels. In addition to providing mentoring programs for girls and professionals, the organization fosters public dialogue and publishes research on grantmaking to women and girls. Through its programming, members can learn everything from the work of influential woman philanthropists to how the philanthropic sector can serve women and girls. CWIP also hosted a series of events aimed at educating members about philanthropy in communities of color and convened experts on advancing racial equity through its Racial Equity & Social Justice Committee.

Women Leading the Way 

As we honor the achievements of women this month, we recognize the unique role CWIP plays in the accomplishments of generations of women philanthropists in Chicago. It helps members thrive by connecting them to a diverse network of colleagues who learn and grow together through a shared passion for their work. By empowering members to uplift one another, it inspires each to become an innovator in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors.