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…
“Philanthropy & Giving” Stories
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Trusted Voices: Unity Fund Creates a Pathway to Well-Being
Addressing residents’ most urgent needs is at the heart of our work as the Chicago region’s community foundation. The Chicago Community Trust’s Unity Fund collects…
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Giving Insights: Planning for 2025
We offer some ideas and approaches to consider as you make your giving plans for the year. The Trust’s philanthropic and gift planning experts are…
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Giving Season 2024: How You Can Support the Chicago Region
As our region’s community foundation, The Chicago Community Trust serves as a platform for change, connecting philanthropy to impactful outcomes. Throughout the year, the Trust unites generous donors,…
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2024 End-of-Year Charitable Giving: Important Dates & Deadlines for Gifts & Grants
The end of the year is approaching and we at The Chicago Community Trust are committed to making your year-end giving and grantmaking from your…
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From Giving USA to Illinois Gives: How to Ensure Lasting Impact in a Changing Charitable Environment
In 2023 Americans gave $557.16 billion to charities—the highest dollar amount on record. While a staggering total, it represents a 2.1% decline over the previous…
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The Amplification Fund: Engaging and Immersing Donors in Trust Grantmaking
Last summer, Program Manager Caleb Herod and former Senior Director of Gift Planning Tim Bresnahan met over a cup of coffee to brainstorm new opportunities…
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CDFIs Bring Development to Disinvested Communities
In order for communities to thrive, they must have access to financial services and investment capital that spur economic development. However, nationally and in Chicago,…
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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…
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Unity Fund: A Look at Impact in 2023
The Chicago Community Trust’s Unity Fund is a testament to the community spirit of the Chicago region and the power of collective giving. Since its…
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Caring for Our Neighbors Through Crisis
In 2008, at the height of the Great Recession, the Trust launched Unity Fund to pool contributions from donors to help frontline organizations meet the…
