More than 50 years after the end of the Vietnam War, the environmental and health consequences of “Operation Ranch Hand” — the U.S. military’s aerial spraying of herbicides containing dioxin — continue to unfold. Agent Orange, the most widely used of these herbicides, left behind contamination in the soil, water, and food systems of Southeast […]

In the heart of West Garfield Park, where residents face one of Chicago’s starkest life expectancy gaps, a transformative vision is taking shape. The Sankofa Wellness Village represents more than just new construction — it embodies a community’s determination to rewrite its narrative and reclaim its future. Confronting the Statistics The numbers paint a sobering […]

As sustainability efforts expand across the country, a growing number of initiatives are rethinking how packaging waste is handled in industries like wine and spirits — from glass bottles to shipping boxes and plastic wrap. In Northern California, one program is offering a practical, scalable model that reduces landfill waste while building green career skills […]

As a child growing up in New York City, I could always find escape and comfort in books. I didn’t know it then, but those stories would become my compass, guiding me through trauma, identity, and inequality. Today, as the founder of Read It and Leave It, I work to offer that same compass to […]

On May 7, nearly 200 guests gathered at Galleria Marchetti in Chicago’s River West neighborhood for The Family Institute at Northwestern University‘s third annual Gratitude Gala. Hosted by The Family Institute’s Board of Directors, the event raised nearly $260,000 to support the Bette D. Harris Family & Child Clinic, which provides no-cost behavioral health services […]

July in Chicago means long days, late sunsets, and no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re chasing live music, fireworks, food festivals, or art exhibitions, this month brings the kind of high-energy, culture-packed calendar that makes summer here feel so electric. From classic traditions like the 4th on 53rd Parade to major headliners at Lollapalooza […]

Sneakers replaced stilettos and hit the dance floor as After School Matters supporters turned out for the fifth annual Sneaker Ball, hosted by the organization’s Associate Board at Punch Bowl Social.  The event raised more than $175,000 for ASM’s Stipend Fund, ensuring that Chicago teens receive compensation for their time and talent across a wide […]

We often speak of our world’s vastness — a place of countless cultures, languages, and lived experiences. We emphasize the importance of cross-cultural understanding, of listening and learning from others. But too often, these ideals remain abstract. Now, imagine a way for young people around the world to connect directly — to share their thoughts, […]

Growing up in the Bay Area, I was extremely shy, but I found my voice behind the lens of a camera. I spent hours creating imaginary worlds and chasing stories that felt larger than life. By the time I was 18, my films about mental health, identity, and teen issues had premiered at top film […]

For Sandro Miller, art is more than expression — it’s protest, it’s healing, and it’s a form of resistance we can’t afford to lose. The Chicago-based, award-winning photographer’s book Dance for Life celebrates the language of the body as expressed by the city’s most celebrated performers. His 16 years of charitable work with the dance-based […]

“Oh, I’ve had such a curious dream,” said Alice — and so did the 950 guests who stepped through a magical keyhole entrance on Saturday, May 31, for the Joffrey Ballet’s annual spring fundraiser. Held on a sprawling soundstage at Chicago’s Cinespace Film Studios, the “Joffrey Celebration” honored Board Chair Anne L. Kaplan and Life […]

The North Shore of Chicago is filled with vibrant communities and years-long traditions that usher in excitement each summer. With endless possibilities — such as outdoor live music, a scenic 5k race, art in the park, and more — everyone is welcome to join in the fun. Read on for a selection of the best […]