From the Archives: 2004 – The Creation of the Disabilities Fund
December 3rd is International Day of Persons with Disabilities, which celebrates the achievements of people with disabilities and raises awareness of the challenges…
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 23: Understanding the Impact of Public Benefits
When most people picture hunger in America, they think of food pantries. Yet for every meal a pantry provides, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance…
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Asian Giving Circle Awards $100,000 in its 2025 Grantmaking Cycle
Asian Giving Circle, an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust, is a grassroots philanthropic initiative uniting donor to make a greater collective impact…
“Donor Profile” Stories
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Our Partners in Change: Marty Castro
For Marty Castro, philanthropy is a kind of family business. “For at least a couple of generations before me, we Castros have been very involved…
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Our Partners in Change: Teresa Prim & G. Sequane Lawrence
Teresa Prim and G. Sequane Lawrence have spent their personal and professional lives serving their community and supporting youth and economic development in the Chicago…
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Our Partners in Change: Suzanne Shier
Attorney Suzanne Shier enjoys solving puzzles. In her role of counsel with Levenfeld Pearlstein’s trusts and estates group, she gets to do just that, with…
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Our Partners in Change: Brian Barnes
Brian Barnes is the founder and CEO of financial tech start-up M1 Finance. With his siblings, he also manages a fund at the Trust that…
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Our Partners in Change: Ken O'Keefe
When Ken O’Keefe was starting out as an investment banker, he was struck by the contrast between the luxurious lifestyles associated with his storied industry…
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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…
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Expanding Impact: How Charitable Dollars Can Make an Impact Beyond Grant Making
Philanthropy and investing are often thought of as two very separate disciplines—one dedicated to driving positive social change; the other focused solely on generating financial…
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A Legacy Focused on the Region’s Future
The Trust’s ability to pivot and address the evolving needs of the community is due to donors whose generosity lives on through the Trust. The…
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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…
