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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Through Beauty and Laughter, Local Artists Help Connect Communities
We have each had a moment when a performance, or painting, or piece of literature resonates within us deeply enough to leave an indelible mark.…
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Mentoring Teens for Tech Careers—and Peaceful Futures
Curtis Johnson, 15, doesn’t like to talk about his former girlfriend’s suicide. But her story inspired his new website and blog, Human Hands, which aims…
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Chicagoans Reach Out to Bring Neighbors Health and Healing
Each of our physical, mental and spiritual health affects how we interact with those around us, and shapes the dynamics of our communities. Improving access…
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Mapping the Damage to Illinois' Endangered Human Services
“The state has intentionally outsourced essential services to its nonprofits to care for and serve its most vulnerable residents. These nonprofits have efficiently and effectively…
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A West Side High School Where Peace Circles Reduce Violence, Build Success
Zuberi Owens has more on his mind than many high school students do. A mother on dialysis to treat her kidney disease. A neighborhood that’s…
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Revitalizing Public Spaces for Conversation, Creativity and Play
Community spaces reflect the heritage and culture of our neighborhoods, and often define how those outside view the places we live. They give us a…
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How Place Matters for Chicagoans' Economic Mobility
Many recent federal policies have been shaped around the notion that a child’s ZIP code should not determine their chances for success in life. Yet…
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For Youth in Prison, This Library Fuels Imagination and Connection
A good book has the power to take you places. Help you discover new things about yourself. See the world in a new light. In…
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A Global Activist Reflects on Marching with MLK
In 1966, Rozell W. “Prexy” Nesbitt was 22 years old, fresh from a year studying in Tanzania and eager to join the Chicago Freedom Movement.…
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The 64 Great Ideas Sparking Change in Chicagoland Communities
Across the Chicagoland region, our collective civic pride is deeply rooted in the steady determination to bring about the very best conditions of life for…
