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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Real School Choice Requires Strong Neighborhood Schools
It seems that few people believe in neighborhood public high schools these days. And that’s unfortunate, because neighborhood schools are central to building a better…
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Chicago’s Epic Shopping Cart Race Against Hunger
When Devin Breen attended Burning Man in 2005, he experienced “ordinary people creating extraordinary things.” Energized by the personally empowering experience, Breen knew that he…
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Preparing Parochial Schools to Embrace Students with Disabilities
Jenny Fortner has a warm place in her heart for children with special needs. The newly appointed chair of Special Olympics Illinois, Fortner recently joined…
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Teachers, Students and Developers "Hack" Chicago's Education Challenges
A definite buzz of anticipation filled the air early one recent Saturday morning in the big, busy, mural-splashed space at Blue1647. More than 120 education…
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A Social Club for Fellowship, Faith and Philanthropy
Dedicated to the moral welfare of the city, the Chicago Sunday Evening Club’s origins intertwined with The Chicago Community Trust’s. The Chicago Sunday Evening Club was organized…
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A Theologian Reflects on Race, Policing and Parenthood
Before Rev. Jim Wallis was a New York Times-bestselling author and theologian, before he was named to the White House Advisory Council on Faith-Based and…
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The Quest to Fix Chicago’s Budget–30 Years Ago
Before joining the Trust’s Executive Committee in 1979, James F. Beré had established a wide-ranging reputation for civic service and business acumen as chief executive…
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A Broadcaster Gives Voice to Life with Visual Impairment
“Ever since I was little I’d be very interested in radio, in staying informed.” [pullquote]Radio broadcaster demystifies life w/visual impairment, boosts employment for people who…
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Pioneering Study Aimed to Reduce Death in Childbirth
In 1922, the United States ranked behind most of Europe and much of Latin America in its rate of maternal safety during childbirth. More mothers…
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After Addiction, Finding Purpose in Re-Entry Reform
Anthony Lowery’s father earned a living through his trucking company—and even more money selling drugs. After years in federal prison, he tried to protect his…
