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

We Are Successful When We Are Connected': State of Community 2016

Nov 15 2016

It was almost exactly 100 years ago—on December 15th, 1916—that the Trust hosted a luncheon at the Union League Club to introduce The Chicago Community…
For Chicago's Kids, Mentors Build New Skills and Lifelong Resilience

Nov 4 2016

The value of a good mentor is impossible to measure. The lasting effects of the guidance we receive often extend far past the length of…
Police, Lawmakers & Communities Envision a Justice System that Heals

Nov 3 2016

On a sunny morning last May, a lifelong resident of Chicago’s North Lawndale community stood on the corner of 18th Street and Hamlin Avenue, telling…
For Chicago Voters, Supporting Mental Health Care Builds Common Ground

Nov 1 2016

In recent months, the local news has reflected an increasing awareness of the complex and interlinked challenges of mental health, public safety and community vitality.…
Digital Badges Inspire Young Chicago to Build Job Skills, Financial Literacy

Oct 27 2016

“It’s best not to go on a spending spree. It’s not to say you shouldn’t buy things for yourself, but it’s best to shop intelligently.…
The Seven Content Elements that Get Nonprofits Noticed—and Shared

Oct 20 2016

There are 2.5 million blog posts and articles created daily for the web. But 75% of those articles are not linked by any other sources,…
How Microaggressions Keep Hurting—and How to Interrupt

Oct 19 2016

At the end of September, colleagues and I attended the YWCA Madison Racial Justice Summit—an annual event designed to provide expertise and facilitate discussions about…
The Five Leadership Languages

Oct 18 2016

On August 31, Becky Brasfield was a featured speaker at a BMO Harris executive roundtable luncheon on diversity, equity and inclusion. As a Leadership Fellow…
Six $1,000 Ideas to Counter Violence in Chicago

Oct 6 2016

When violence touches our communities, Chicago residents summon up our determination and creativity to respond. Supporting survivors, engaging youth to help them find a more…
My High School: Challenging, Eye-Opening, Empowering

Oct 5 2016

My eighth grade year was all about preparing to go to high school. My mind was set to go to Whitney M. Young Magnet High…