Our Partners in Change: Mars Wrigley & Vistria Group

Recognizing that we can do far more together than alone, the Trust is deeply committed to partnerships—not just with our donors and grant recipients, but with other funders and corporations.

The Mars Wrigley Foundation is a longtime partner that has joined forces with the Trust on several landmark initiatives, including We Rise Together. “We deeply value our partnership with the Trust,” says Anne Vela-Wagner, executive director of the Mars Wrigley Foundation. “Together we are tackling some of the toughest challenges in our region, from the pandemic to racial equity. The essential roles the Trust plays as convener and collaborator, and its ability to mobilize during a crisis, is so critical.” 

The Trust also partners with The Vistria Group, a Chicago-based private investment firm focused on creating value for investors while strengthening communities. Vistria and Mars Wrigley are among the 25 companies that committed to advancing equitable business practices as part of We Rise Together’s 5/25 Move to Action. 

“We believe there’s an incredible value proposition for businesses when they leverage the strength and power of diversity. DEI is in Vistria’s DNA, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it makes us a better firm,” says Martin Nesbitt, senior partner, co-chairman, and co-CEO of Vistria.