Working Together to Care for Our Neighbors
The Chicago region has a long and valued tradition of community organizations working alongside government to deliver essential services and enhance residents’ lives.…
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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Bob Crawford’s Journey from Business Leader to Philanthropic Changemaker
Individual giving remains the driving force behind philanthropy in the United States. Even amid market uncertainty, giving increased by 3.3 percent in 2024…
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Young Leaders Fund Awards $100,000 in Community-Based Grants
Young Leaders Fund (YLF), an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust, provides young professionals with an innovative way to make a difference in Chicago…
All Stories
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Challenging Racial Inequality, Driving Economic Growth
The experience of the Obama administration and the outcome of the election belie any thought that we live in a post-racial America. We know there…
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The Art of Healing
When you meet Jean Cozier, she immediately draws you in with her vibrant personality, infectious laughter and beaming smile. This longtime donor to The Chicago…
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From Libraries to Food Pantries, Service Gaps Inspire Neighborhood Ingenuity
As budget challenges prompt cutbacks in public services, many of our neighborhoods bear the burden. But whether it’s food scarcity or access to information, six…
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Helping Families Find Their Way Home
Alexis Castleberry doesn’t take anything for granted. A mother of five, she is thankful that she can provide her children with a home in Chatham,…
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In North Lawndale, Teens and Police Plant Common Ground
Classmates Alisha Dale and Roosevelt Harris-Williams work side by side, pulling rakes through a mound of wood chips. They will use the chips to smother…
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Matchmaking for a Manufacturing Renaissance in America's Cities
More products could be made in American cities like Chicago. But for that to happen, the local “idea people” and the people who run established…
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Laying the Foundation for a Fresh Start After Prison
Bridget Stephens has so much to celebrate. In 2010, Stephens was released after a six-month prison term, and began taking the first steps of recovery…
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Local Impact Investing Made Easy
Three years ago, many philanthropists were asking their advisors, “What is impact investing?” Today those same philanthropists are asking, “How do we become impact investors?”…
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Starting the Conversation for Effective Year-End Planning
For many professional advisors, the end of the year is a sprint to the finish line. Your clients need documents drafted, assets transferred and guidance…
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Low Interest Rates? Consider Two Unique Charitable Opportunities.
The persistently low interest rate environment often stirs conversations around the challenges to investors seeking yield and returns. But for philanthropists, and the advisors who…
