Laying the Groundwork for Lasting Policy Reform
When the Trust decided to integrate policy change into our strategies, we did so recognizing that to achieve our mission of a thriving…
Stories
Spotlights on community issues, the people, and the organizations who contribute to effective philanthropy as well as a stronger Chicago region and world.
Recent Stories
-
-
Trust Talks, The Podcast – Episode 24: Sustaining Chicago's Cultural Ecosystem
Chicago is one of the most influential cultural cities in the United States, known for its distinctive blend of architecture, visual arts, music,…
-
Claude and Britney, Two Donald Stewart Fellows, Reflect on How Their Commitment to Community Led Them to the African American Legacy Fund
Claude Robinson and Britney Robbins joined African American Legacy (AAL) from different paths—Claude as a staunch advocate for uplifting African American communities; Britney…
All Stories
-
Announcing the New Advisory Board of the Disabilities Fund
The Disabilities Fund, an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust, is proud to announce its new cohort of advisory board members. The following members began…
-
Nuestro Futuro Awards $370,000 in 2024 Grants to Chicago Nonprofits Focused on Immigration and Early Childhood
*In 2025, to respond to the urgent needs of the community, Nuestro Futuro invited their 2024 grant partners to reapply for funding in 2025. All…
-
From the Archives: 1966 – Gautreaux v. Chicago Housing Authority
Public housing in Chicago has a long and complicated history that has had a lasting impact on federal housing policy nationwide. In 1942, the first…
-
From Giving USA to Illinois Gives: How to Ensure Lasting Impact in a Changing Charitable Environment
In 2023 Americans gave $557.16 billion to charities—the highest dollar amount on record. While a staggering total, it represents a 2.1% decline over the previous…
-
Press Forward Chicago Supports a Thriving Local Media Landscape
Robust local news coverage is essential to fostering an informed and engaged public. In contrast to much of the country, where local newspapers are going…
-
Black Philanthropy Month Spotlight: Natashia Holmes
Natashia L. Holmes is the founder of McMillan Holmes LLC, a law firm specializing in real estate and property law. Prior to starting her firm,…
-
Young Leaders Fund Awards $75,000 to Small, Start-Up Nonprofits
The Young Leaders Fund (YLF), an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust provides young professionals with an innovative way to make a difference in Chicago. With support…
-
From the Archives: 1987 – The Harris Theater
July 16, 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of Millennium Park, the top tourist destination in the Midwest. Within the famed park, the Harris Theater for…
-
The Amplification Fund: Engaging and Immersing Donors in Trust Grantmaking
Last summer, Program Manager Caleb Herod and former Senior Director of Gift Planning Tim Bresnahan met over a cup of coffee to brainstorm new opportunities…
-
Making Great Things Happen by Connecting People to Purpose
Over my three decades in philanthropy, I have learned so much from donors and nonprofit leaders about generosity and commitment. A theme that continues to…
