Charities in Chicago

Going back as far as the 19th century, Chicago residents have established a legacy of charitable giving. Chicagoans’ generosity, sense of community, and renowned Midwestern compassion has defined philanthropy among the population throughout the city’s history.

Where to Donate in Chicago

Because of its long history of charitable giving, there are an abundance of well-established, respected, and worthwhile organizations to which residents can donate in Chicago. The following are just a few of many:

• Chicago Community Trust: One of the oldest and most influential nonprofits in the country. The Chicago lCommunity Trust’s focus is on building equity, opportunity, and prosperity in the Chicago area. CCT addresses economic issues, racial equity, diversity, and inclusion. 
• Greater Chicago Food Depository: Committed to ending hunger, the Greater Chicago Food Depository works with more than 800 community partners to distribute food and advocate for policies that eliminate food insecurity.
• Chicago Cares: This organization brings together volunteers for service projects to address pressing needs in the city. By leveraging community engagement, Chicago Cares is committed to social change.
• Mikva Challenge: The Mikva Challenge organization’s mission is to empower and inform Chicago youth so as to promote a just and equitable community. Through their work, they encourage young people to assume leadership roles and participate in the democratic process.
• Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation: The Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago Foundation supports pediatric research, education, and care to ensure all children have access to medical treatment and quality healthcare regardless of a family’s ability to pay.
• Urban Initiatives: This is a sports-based development program for Chicago’s youth. Urban Initiatives works to promote health, academic success, and personal growth.

Ways You Can Help Chicago Charities

Dedicated individuals working together to help those within the community is the hallmark of charities in Chicago. Through these collaborative efforts, Chicagoans help lift up the lives of their neighbors. If you would like to support any of these organizations, there multiple ways you can do so, including:

• Donate money. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or a sustained, on-going gift, every organization needs the financial support that donors offer to continue their work. There are also opportunities to donate stock or leave a planned giving legacy in your will.

• Volunteer. Charities in Chicago rely on the generosity of their volunteers who so selflessly give of their time, resources, and compassion. 

• Donate food or other items. Food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters appreciate food donations as well as other items such as diapers, formula, and clothing.
• Advocate. Many of these organizations need the community to speak with their elected officials about those in the community who need their help. As an advocate, you can write letters and/or make phone calls to lawmakers, post on social media, participate in peaceful protests, and inform others and invite them to support a charitable organization.

Chicago Charities Are Committed to Making an Impact

From ending hunger and homelessness to supporting marginalized communities, Chicago charities are committed to making a positive impact for all Chicago residents. We invite you to share in our commitment to making a difference for our neighbors with whom we share this wonderful city.