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

Putting Philanthropic Dollars to Work for Chicago

Apr 25 2016

For 100 years, The Chicago Community Trust has worked to infuse our region with the resources to build community vitality. We have partnered with donors…
Launching Green Careers, Empowering Volunteers

Apr 20 2016

Interconnectedness is truly at the heart of what it means to be a sustainable community. That means making smart, collaborative decisions about how we consume…
Action Plan to Revitalize Chicago High Schools—and Neighborhoods

Apr 19 2016

One city, united in support of our neighborhood public high schools. That was the bold vision animating the crowd at the Ukrainian Cultural Center, as…
One-Step, Two-Step to Healthier, Happier Life for Seniors

Apr 18 2016

“I ask that you not say ‘I can’t do it, not at this age.’ On the contrary: ‘I will be able to do it.'” After…
How a Tax Act Changed the Game for Generosity

Apr 14 2016

By distinguishing the community foundation from all other types of foundation, the Tax Reform Act of 1969 changed the rules of philanthropy. [pullquote]How the Tax…
On the Table' Goes to Citizen University

Apr 13 2016

This year’s annual conference for Citizen University was an exciting national moment for On the Table. Hosting a dinner conversation with activists, artists and changemakers…
"That Was My Rescuing Point": StoryCorps

Apr 8 2016

When Lawrence Thomas graduated at the top of his class from Ball State University, he was still in prison. [pullquote]Lawrence Thomas tells @StoryCorps about foster…
At West Side Housing Complex, Inventing a Place to Call Home

Apr 5 2016

Four years ago, the Oakley Square apartments were no place to live. The rundown complex at the corner of Jackson Boulevard and Western Avenue was…
Thousand Mile Journey Toward a United Chicago Continues

Apr 4 2016

The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—his struggle for justice and equity for all—resonates vividly against the backdrop of Chicago’s contemporary challenges. Dr. King’s…
Chicago Faith and Justice Leaders Confront America's "Original Sin"

Apr 3 2016

“We don’t have racialized communities by accident. We are structured out of relationship to each other.” With these words, Rev. Jim Wallis called on Chicagoans…