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…
“Donor Profile” Stories
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Cynthia Plouché on Using Her Voice to Level the Playing Field
In celebration of Black Philanthropy Month in August, the Trust is featuring a series of conversations with Black philanthropists making their impact across the Chicago…
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Our Partners in Change: Anne Ladky & Karen Fishman
Anne Ladky and Karen Fishman’s philanthropy is primarily driven by one theme: systemic change for a more equitable society. Both women dedicated their careers to…
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Our Partners in Change: Marty Castro
For Marty Castro, philanthropy is a kind of family business. “For at least a couple of generations before me, we Castros have been very involved…
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Our Partners in Change: Teresa Prim & G. Sequane Lawrence
Teresa Prim and G. Sequane Lawrence have spent their personal and professional lives serving their community and supporting youth and economic development in the Chicago…
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Our Partners in Change: Suzanne Shier
Attorney Suzanne Shier enjoys solving puzzles. In her role of counsel with Levenfeld Pearlstein’s trusts and estates group, she gets to do just that, with…
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Our Partners in Change: Brian Barnes
Brian Barnes is the founder and CEO of financial tech start-up M1 Finance. With his siblings, he also manages a fund at the Trust that…
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Our Partners in Change: Ken O'Keefe
When Ken O’Keefe was starting out as an investment banker, he was struck by the contrast between the luxurious lifestyles associated with his storied industry…
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Our Partners in Change: Mars Wrigley & Vistria Group
Recognizing that we can do far more together than alone, the Trust is deeply committed to partnerships—not just with our donors and grant recipients, but…
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Expanding Impact: How Charitable Dollars Can Make an Impact Beyond Grant Making
Philanthropy and investing are often thought of as two very separate disciplines—one dedicated to driving positive social change; the other focused solely on generating financial…
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A Legacy Focused on the Region’s Future
The Trust’s ability to pivot and address the evolving needs of the community is due to donors whose generosity lives on through the Trust. The…
