A Young Leader's Vision for Collective Impact
In celebration of Black Philanthropy Month, this inspiring Q&A features Jacque Stefanic, a nonprofit founder, donor and community leader, as he shares his…
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
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Trust Talks, The Podcast – Episode 20: Advocating for Policy Reform
Although nonprofit organizations play a vital role in recognizing and addressing the needs of the community, research shows the percentage of nonprofits involved…
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2025 Illinois General Assembly Recap
I came to The Chicago Community Trust in March after spending years as chief of staff to Illinois State Rep. Kelly Cassidy. I…
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Year-End Gifts to the Unity Fund Help Meet the Region’s Immediate Needs
Respond Now works to prevent hunger and homelessness in the south suburbs. The Harbour offers safe, stable housing to young mothers and their children. Erie…
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A Passion for Art and Philanthropy Brings Joy to Generations
For more than a decade, The Art Institute of Chicago has been decking the tiny halls of its Thorne Miniature Rooms for the holidays. As you’re…
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Giving Season 2021: 3 Ways You Can Support the Chicago Region
Giving season is upon us, and we at The Chicago Community Trust are here to offer you the following three options to support the Chicago…
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Charitable Gifts to Make by December 31 – Before the Tax Benefits Disappear
An estimated 30 percent of all charitable giving occurs just in the month of December. This annual tide of generosity is critically important to organizations…
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The Importance of a City Ward Remapping Process that is Transparent, Incorporates Community Voice, and Strengthens Resident Representation
As part of the Trust’s Building Collective Power and Advocating for Policy Change teams, I often reflect on different strategies to actively engage and uplift…
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2021 End-of-Year Charitable Giving: Important Dates and Deadlines
The end of the year is fast approaching and we at The Chicago Community Trust are committed to making your year-end giving as simple and…
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Make CTC/EITC Improvements Permanent: Sound Economic Policy with Far Reaching Impacts
There’s a political game playing out in Washington, and the stakes could not be higher. Will the debt ceiling be raised? Will major infrastructure legislation…
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"Collaborative Fund" is a New Source of Capital for Groups Advancing Neighborhood Investment
In 2020, the Trust’s Catalyzing Neighborhood Investment team launched the Flexible Funding Program. The program supports and builds the capacity of organizations to engage with community partnerships,…
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2021 Q4 Grants Highlight Trust’s Dual Focus on Wealth Gap and Pandemic Recovery
Throughout The Chicago Community Trust’s 2021 fiscal year—October 2020 to September 2021, including 347 discretionary grants totaling $29.1 million—COVID-19 remained a persistent challenge.* The year’s…
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Protecting & Advancing Equitable Homeownership: Lawndale Christian Development Corporation
Lawndale Christian Development Corporation (LCDC) organizes with the community to eliminate health and wealth disparities in North Lawndale and worldwide. LCDC’s work is done by…
