Trusted Voices: Reimagining How We Meet Critical Needs
Across the region, households are struggling to make ends meet amid rising costs, changes in federal policies and social service programs, and funding…
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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Giving Insights: Caring for Chicago Over Generations
Narcissa Niblack Thorne is best known as the creator of the beloved Thorne Miniature Rooms—68 of which are housed at the Art Institute…
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Chicago’s Housing Future Is in Its Past: Look to the “Missing Middle"
Like the rest of the country, Chicago is facing an affordable housing crisis. Some neighborhoods boast houses that are too pricey for many…
All Stories
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Caring for Our Neighbors by Addressing Critical Needs
While homelessness in the U.S. increased by 18.1% in 2024, Chicago’s numbers more than tripled. This staggering increase stems from many factors, including a lack of…
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The Block Family: A Legacy of Impactful Leadership
The Block family’s legacy of civic and philanthropic leadership is deeply woven through both Chicago’s history and the Trust’s. In 1893, the family founded the…
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Fifth Third Builds a New Model for Community Development in South Chicago
Fifth Third Bank’s long history of supporting communities goes back to 1948, when it became the first U.S. financial institution to establish a charitable foundation.…
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Kirk Hoopingarner on Helping Advisors Help Their Clients
As a trusts and estates attorney at Quarles & Brady, Kirk Hoopingarner finds deep satisfaction in counseling high-net-worth families on their charitable giving strategies. Outside…
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Larry Saret on Supporting What Matters to You
Larry Saret first met the Trust when he was a senior in high school. His father had passed away five years earlier, and he was…
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Affinity Funds: Creating Impact Through Connection
Affinity funds allow donors with a common identity or interest to pool their giving and make a greater impact together. The Trust proudly hosts six affinity…
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2024 Annual Report: In Memoriam
JUDITH STOFER BLOCK EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Judy Block dedicated her life to civic service, contributing countless volunteer hours while blazing trails along the way. As…
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From the Archives: 2002 – Asian Giving Circle
May marks Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate AAPI history, uplift the achievements of AAPI individuals, and raise awareness…
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Chicago is Primed for Creative and Targeted Home Lending Solutions
The beauty of Chicago is that every person, every place, and every home has a story. And while my personal story didn’t begin here, it…
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Amidst Uncertainties, Trust is Helping Nonprofits Continue to Meet Community Needs
As the federal government cuts funding and programs that support essential services, such as closing the Chicago-based Midwest regional office of the Department of Health…
