The Power of Collective Advocacy & Collaboration
In communities across Illinois, families work hard to build stable lives, but the systems meant to support them often fall short. Whether it’s…
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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We’re Stronger Together
Since joining The Chicago Community Trust three years ago, I’ve been thinking about ways to ensure those most affected by our decisions are…
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Disabilities Fund Awards Over $355,000 in Community-Based Grants
Disabilities Fund, an initiative of The Chicago Community Trust, recently restructured and piloted their first ever open call Request for Proposals (RFP) grant process.…
All Stories
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A Startup Entrepreneur and Literacy Champion, on Her 'Path Back to Generosity’
At the age of 35, recipient of The Chicago Community Trust Fellowship and serial entrepreneur Stacy Ratner was a veteran of four venture-backed startup companies…
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The Compassionate Exterminator: Controlling Bedbugs for Neighbors in Need
Hard-working Martinez Williams knows how to make a quick buck. His entrepreneurial streak started in his teens. First, he was a hair model for Soft…
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The First Great Donor: James A. Patten
In 1924 James A. Patten gave assets to the Trust that survive to this day. Known as the “Wheat King,” Patten amassed a fortune on the commodities…
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Think Good, It's Friday! 7.31.15
This past Sunday, July 26, people across the country celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Here in Chicago, the Trust…
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A Hip-Hop Artist and a Nurse, Both Inspiring a New Generation
Sometimes philanthropy is the simple act of listening or the telling of a story to celebrate someone’s life. This week’s stories from the Vocalo Storytellers…
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Addressing the Stigma of Invisible Disabilities: Mark Ishaug
According to the World Health Organization, mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders are the leading cause of disability worldwide. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)…
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Greater Together with Technology
I was a teenager in the 1980’s and remember disability activists taking over bus routes and rolling in front of buses in acts of civil…
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Changing Perception, Advancing Workforce Inclusion: Steve Pemberton
“Growing up in foster care, I always wondered: how had I become disconnected from my parents? Why? Who are they?” It wasn’t until he was…
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Pushing Forward
Twenty-five years ago, on July 26, 1990, 2,000 people with disabilities gathered on the South Lawn of the White House for the Americans with Disabilities…
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Life After a Spinal Cord Injury: Thea Flaum Helps Families Find Answers
Sunday, July 26, marked the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): landmark civil rights legislation that drastically improved the lives of people…
