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
-
-
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…
-
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
-
A Collaborative Approach to Impact
The Trust is committed to collecting data and applying what we learn to bring people together, spark innovation, and inform decision-making. We also seek to…
-
2023 Annual Report: In Memoriam
JOHN H. “JACK” CATLIN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER Jack Catlin was a disability rights pioneer whose tireless advocacy improved the lives of thousands of people with…
-
JPMorgan Chase Pursues A More Inclusive Chicago Economy
In 2020, JPMorgan Chase announced a $30 billion commitment to help address the racial wealth gap. This included $150 million in philanthropic capital and low-cost…
-
Partnering with McDonald's to Serve Up Change for Chicago's Youth
McDonald’s roots in Chicago date back to 1955. It’s why now, as one of the largest employers headquartered in the city, the company is committed…
-
The Liebman Family: A Tradition of Thoughtful, Compassionate Giving
The Liebman family has spent decades quietly nourishing social, educational and economic causes in the Chicago region and beyond. For the Liebmans, philanthropy is a…
-
Michael Friedberg: Professional Advisor, Passionate Problem-Solver
Michael Friedberg thrives on solving problems. It’s a large part of why he finds his work as an attorney and advisor to high-net-worth individuals and…
-
Loann Honesty King: Co-Founder of African American Legacy, the Trust's First Affinity Fund
Early in her teaching career, Loann Honesty King realized the importance of getting to know more about her high school students and their life experiences…
-
Committed to Solving Homelessness
Responding to Chicagoans’ urgent needs has always been a vital part of the Trust’s mission — and right now, one of the most pressing needs…
-
The Proof Is in the Partnership
Across the Midwest, small farms and food producers have promising ideas for products and growing methods that could help feed our region and build the…
-
Community Voices + Policy Change Are Powering Neighborhood Investment
For over 20 years, Florence Spann and her husband have spent their time and resources maintaining not just their own property (a two-story corner home…
