Ways to Give
The Chicago Community Trust offers a number of opportunities to direct your charitable giving into our local community and beyond.
Flexible Solutions. Lasting Impact.
Let the Trust’s philanthropic professionals show you how giving can be made easier, more effective, and more gratifying. From legacy giving to impact investing, to supporting the Trust’s strategic work, to giving circles that unite likeminded donors for greater philanthropic power—you have options.
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Establish a Fund
Choose from several fund types, invested and managed by our team. You can recommend grants, support specific charities, or focus on causes you care about.
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Legacy & Planned Giving
Consider legacy and planned giving. Build Chicago’s future into your will or trust through a bequest, beneficiary designation or estate gift.
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Support Chicago
Give directly. We invite donors to support our strategic initiatives and partnerships in the Chicago region.
Give Locally
We connect people and resources to accelerate progress on what matters most for Chicago to thrive.
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100+
Years Serving Chicago
Established in 1915
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$2 Billion
In Grants In 2025
Locally and Beyond
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8,900+
Organizations Received Grants in 2025
Locally and Beyond
Why the Trust?
Philanthropy is the only thing we do.
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The Trust is not a bank, wealth manager, or a foundation with one narrow mission. Our focus is helping your giving go further.
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We are a partner who knows philanthropy as well as you know your goals. The Trust brings deep nonprofit relationships and guidance to help shape giving around your goals. Your attorney, accountant or wealth advisor is always welcome.
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Give anywhere. Even when your giving is directed to causes far from Chicago, the fees from your fund help power the Trust’s work here at home.
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Affinity Funds
Affinity funds bring together donors united by a shared heritage, identity or common interest. They offer an efficient way to support a specific community and the nonprofits that serve it, leveraging collective giving for greater impact.
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Impact Investing
We believe impact investing, which generates social returns alongside financial gains, amplifies the power of the philanthropic capital entrusted to us. Through our Impact Investing Program, donor advised fund holders can join us in putting capital to work.
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Partnerships & Initiatives
Over the years, the Trust has launched initiatives that help our region engage with the issues it cares about. These task forces tackle challenges from fresh angles and harness civic collaboration for greater impact.
Discover the Work
Do You Know About Special Funds?
The Trust houses and administers funds for a number of charitable and civic initiatives that address our region’s most pressing needs. Supporters of the following special funds can make donations online.
Let’s Talk
However you choose to give, we are here to help make it happen. The best way to know which path fits your goals is a conversation. Reach out to meet with a philanthropic advisor: no obligation, just a conversation about your vision.