Stories

Spotlights on community issues, the people, and the organizations who contribute to effective philanthropy as well as a stronger Chicago region and world.

All Stories

Helping Families Find Their Way Home

Dec 15 2016

Alexis Castleberry doesn’t take anything for granted. A mother of five, she is thankful that she can provide her children with a home in Chatham,…
In North Lawndale, Teens and Police Plant Common Ground

Dec 6 2016

Classmates Alisha Dale and Roosevelt Harris-Williams work side by side, pulling rakes through a mound of wood chips. They will use the chips to smother…
Matchmaking for a Manufacturing Renaissance in America's Cities

Dec 1 2016

More products could be made in American cities like Chicago. But for that to happen, the local “idea people” and the people who run established…
Laying the Foundation for a Fresh Start After Prison

Nov 28 2016

Bridget Stephens has so much to celebrate. In 2010, Stephens was released after a six-month prison term, and began taking the first steps of recovery…
Local Impact Investing Made Easy

Nov 23 2016

Three years ago, many philanthropists were asking their advisors, “What is impact investing?” Today those same philanthropists are asking, “How do we become impact investors?”…
Starting the Conversation for Effective Year-End Planning

Nov 23 2016

For many professional advisors, the end of the year is a sprint to the finish line. Your clients need documents drafted, assets transferred and guidance…
Low Interest Rates? Consider Two Unique Charitable Opportunities.

Nov 23 2016

The persistently low interest rate environment often stirs conversations around the challenges to investors seeking yield and returns. But for philanthropists, and the advisors who…
Wrap Up Your Year of Giving

Nov 22 2016

December is a busy month, so it’s never too soon to start your year-end planning. Donors who like to stay ahead of the curve can…
For Sustainable Local Farming, Award Competition Sparks Bold Solutions

Nov 22 2016

From restaurant menus to grocery stores, interest in local food is stronger than ever. Yet of the $14 billion in produce our region consumes annually,…
In New Documentary, Chicago's Generosity Shines

Nov 21 2016

“You take your privilege, and you take all the things you have, to lift other people up.” Those words of generosity struck a chord for…