A growing coalition of civic leaders in Chicago is advancing a bold, scalable concept called the “Cultural Stadium” — one that could generate transformative wins not just for Chicago, but for any American city with world-class cultural and sports assets. What Is a Cultural Stadium? It’s a framework for uniting and expanding the already significant […]

As Goodman Theatre approaches its 2025/2026 Centennial Season, the theater’s commitment to storytelling beyond the stage is stronger than ever. Through education and engagement programs that reach Chicagoans of all ages — from toddlers experiencing live performance for the first time to older adults reflecting on their lives through storytelling — the Goodman fosters meaningful […]

On April 30, 2025, more than 800 guests filled the Hilton Chicago ballroom for the 23rd Annual American Red Cross Heroes Breakfast — an uplifting celebration of ordinary individuals doing the extraordinary. Hosted by the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago, the event honored 12 exceptional people whose courage, compassion, and service have made a […]

Every night, when the sun goes down, more than one billion people around the world are plunged into total darkness.  For many of us, flipping on a light is second nature. But for families living in extreme poverty, darkness brings danger, lost opportunity, and hopelessness. Without light, education stalls, entrepreneurship fades, and economic freedom slips […]

Whether they’re supporting education and mental health causes, investing, or helping care for their grandchildren, Liz and Kent Dauten offer a compelling model for how values can guide every aspect of life and work. As recipients of the Big Shoulders Fund’s 2025 Humanitarian Award, they exemplify what it looks like to lead with purpose — […]

When I’m asked, “How are you?,” my knee-jerk reaction is to quickly just say, “Fine” or “Good.” But a couple of years ago, I remember being stopped in my tracks when an acquaintance paused after my automatic reply and asked me again, “How are you, really, dear?” She saw right through my hasty answer and […]

When Mia became a first-time mom at 21, she didn’t feel ready. But with the help of a dedicated nurse through the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program, she found the support she needed to face life’s challenges — and the strength to build a future for herself and her son. That support would prove life-changing. Years […]

Chicago’s greenery isn’t the only thing in full bloom this May. From can’t-miss theater and groundbreaking exhibitions to street festivals, art fairs, and spring markets, the city is bursting with energy and inspiration. Whether you’re planning a Mother’s Day outing, looking for weekend plans, or ready to dive into Chicago’s cultural calendar, these are the […]

The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago proudly celebrated the 2025 class of heroes at the annual Red Cross Heroes Breakfast on April 30. These individuals have gone above and beyond to build stronger, safer communities and have made a lasting impact through their selfless actions. The Heroes Breakfast was established to raise public awareness of local heroes […]

Language shapes how we understand the world and each other. In discussions about disability and inclusion, the words we use can either affirm and uplift or alienate and harm. Choosing the right language is essential to fostering a world where everyone feels valued and included. When talking about disability, some people avoid the term entirely, […]

In the 1960s, Myra Alexander fought against racism.Bill Koza craved tolerance toward gay people.Della Reuther protested against war.Ben Bearskin preserved Native American culture.Mary Ward Wolkonsky promoted the civic role of women.Leon Beverly battled for union workers and neighbors.And Blanche Gates, a widowed mother of 15, kept her family strong.  The stories of these seven Chicagoans […]

From its gleaming white terra cotta façade to its enduring clock tower presence on Michigan Avenue, the Wrigley Building has long stood as a symbol of Chicago. But in the new book The Wrigley Building: The Making of an Icon, four of the city’s foremost historians and creatives reveal that this architectural marvel is far more […]