Disabilities Fund

Promoting the development of programs, policy, and public action that expands the empowerment, equal opportunity, inclusion, and participation of diverse persons with disabilities in the Chicago region.

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  • $1.34 Million

    Dollars Raised

  • $689,000+

    Dollars Granted

  • 17

    Active Donors

  • 55+

    Organizations Impacted

Photo: Members of the Disabilities Fund, 2025.

Current Advisory Board Members

Adam Ballard
(Interim Co-Chair)

Sadaf AjaniJae Jin Pak
Bri BeckRafael “Tizoc” Rico
Gizelle ClemensElon Sloan
Joyce OzehKatherine Vakil

About the Fund

The Disabilities Fund partners with and advises The Chicago Community Trust about disability inclusion and priorities for data-driven actionable solutions in the areas of employment, education, community inclusion and technology.

The Fund was established thanks to the generosity of Shawn Donnelley and the Naomi Williams Donnelley Fund.

Three people talk together
Two children play with building blocks at the Access Chicago Expo.

Did You Know?

There are over 800,000 people with disabilities in the Chicago region. 41,000 are young people. Explore the intersection of youth and disability, and get inspired to take action.

Learn More

Questions?

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    Promote the development of programs, policy, and public action that expands the empowerment, equal opportunity, inclusion, and participation of diverse persons with disabilities in the Chicago region.

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Affinity funds are groups of donors united by a shared heritage, identity, or common interest. They offer an efficient way to support a specific group of people and the nonprofits that aid them by leveraging contributions through collective giving.