From Survivor to Advocate: A Little-Known Mutation Shaped My Breast Cancer Journey— Now I Share My Story to Save Lives

I am approaching the 27th anniversary of my breast cancer diagnosis. And while I have remained cancer-free, it’s been quite a ride. I am also approaching the 3rd anniversary of my preventative mastectomy and removal of my ovaries. Why the surgeries, might you ask, if I was cancer-free? In 1997, following a routine mammogram, I […]

I am approaching the 27th anniversary of my breast cancer diagnosis. And while I have remained cancer-free, it’s been quite a ride. I am also approaching the 3rd anniversary of my preventative mastectomy and removal of my ovaries. Why the surgeries, might you ask, if I was cancer-free? In 1997, following a routine mammogram, I […]
Disney Cruise Line’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point: A Blissful Beach Escape for the Conscious Traveler

As travelers become more eco-conscious, they are looking for destinations that provide more than just stunning beaches and a break from reality — they’re seeking experiences that are mindful, sustainable, and aligned with their values. Enter Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s new private island retreat on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera. […]

As travelers become more eco-conscious, they are looking for destinations that provide more than just stunning beaches and a break from reality — they’re seeking experiences that are mindful, sustainable, and aligned with their values. Enter Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s new private island retreat on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera. […]
Growing Solutions: How a Student-Run Hydroponic Farm Is Addressing Food Insecurity in a Chicago Food Desert

Access to fresh and healthy food is a basic human need and essential for a healthy lifestyle.  However, this basic need is not easily met for many residents of Altgeld Gardens and, specifically, the Phillip Murray Homes community on the far south side of Chicago.  Recognized as one of the lowest-income neighborhoods in Chicago, Altgeld […]

Access to fresh and healthy food is a basic human need and essential for a healthy lifestyle.  However, this basic need is not easily met for many residents of Altgeld Gardens and, specifically, the Phillip Murray Homes community on the far south side of Chicago.  Recognized as one of the lowest-income neighborhoods in Chicago, Altgeld […]
How To Help Those Affected By Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction across nearly 500 miles of the U.S. Southeast. The storm first hit landfall on Sept. 26 as a Category 4 storm. Despite weakening as it moved inland, Helene’s impact reached at least 800 miles into Tennessee and North Carolina. Early estimates show at least 130 people dead, more […]

Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction across nearly 500 miles of the U.S. Southeast. The storm first hit landfall on Sept. 26 as a Category 4 storm. Despite weakening as it moved inland, Helene’s impact reached at least 800 miles into Tennessee and North Carolina. Early estimates show at least 130 people dead, more […]
31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in October 2024

It’s that time of year in Chicago when the sidewalks are lined with crunchy leaves and a crisp breeze signals the arrival of fall. With autumn in full swing, it’s time to dive into the seasonal events we’ve been anticipating all year. From Halloween thrills to cozy afternoon outings, we’ve rounded up the top things […]

It’s that time of year in Chicago when the sidewalks are lined with crunchy leaves and a crisp breeze signals the arrival of fall. With autumn in full swing, it’s time to dive into the seasonal events we’ve been anticipating all year. From Halloween thrills to cozy afternoon outings, we’ve rounded up the top things […]
10 of the Most Haunted Places in Chicago

If you’re looking for a good scare this Halloween, you might want to consider a trip to Chicago, one of the most haunted cities in America. From raging fires to mob history, shipping disasters to phantom hitchhikers, Chicago has something to satisfy any ghost hunter’s palate. So don’t be content just to let fires burn […]

If you’re looking for a good scare this Halloween, you might want to consider a trip to Chicago, one of the most haunted cities in America. From raging fires to mob history, shipping disasters to phantom hitchhikers, Chicago has something to satisfy any ghost hunter’s palate. So don’t be content just to let fires burn […]
The 18 Biggest Annual Charity Galas

Charity may begin at home, but it doesn’t have to stay there. Galas for good causes nationwide can give you an even better reason to pack your bags than wanderlust.

Charity may begin at home, but it doesn’t have to stay there. Galas for good causes nationwide can give you an even better reason to pack your bags than wanderlust.
I'm Running the Chicago Marathon for Breakthrough T1D to Give My Sister Hope — Here's How You Can Help

Famous French Nobel laureate and novelist Anatole France beautifully wrote: “Toaccomplish great things; we must not only act but also dream; not only plan but also believe.” Hope and belief in a brighter future are virtues that guide us as humans. Without hope, we would not be where we are today. It is why we […]

Famous French Nobel laureate and novelist Anatole France beautifully wrote: “Toaccomplish great things; we must not only act but also dream; not only plan but also believe.” Hope and belief in a brighter future are virtues that guide us as humans. Without hope, we would not be where we are today. It is why we […]
The Silent Threat of Ovarian Cancer: How Genetic Testing and Early Detection Could Save Your Life

Ovarian cancer continues to challenge doctors who are searching for ways to detect the disease earlier to help save patients’ lives. In 2021, the National Institute of Health reported an estimated 238,484 women were living with ovarian cancer. When diagnosed early, 94% of patients live longer than five years. Yet, historically, ovarian cancer evades early […]

Ovarian cancer continues to challenge doctors who are searching for ways to detect the disease earlier to help save patients’ lives. In 2021, the National Institute of Health reported an estimated 238,484 women were living with ovarian cancer. When diagnosed early, 94% of patients live longer than five years. Yet, historically, ovarian cancer evades early […]
John C. Reilly Dedicates Career Achievement Award to His 'Sweet Home, Chicago,' Commends Chicago International Film Festival for Helping 'Keep the Flame of Film Alive'

“Long live the movies, and long live my sweet home, Chicago!”  With those words, actor John C. Reilly captured the spirit of the Chicago International Film Festival, which celebrated a milestone earlier this summer during Cinema/Chicago’s 60th Anniversary Cinema Soirée.  Cinema/Chicago’s June 1 event at the Geraghty recognized Reilly with a career achievement award celebrating […]

“Long live the movies, and long live my sweet home, Chicago!”  With those words, actor John C. Reilly captured the spirit of the Chicago International Film Festival, which celebrated a milestone earlier this summer during Cinema/Chicago’s 60th Anniversary Cinema Soirée.  Cinema/Chicago’s June 1 event at the Geraghty recognized Reilly with a career achievement award celebrating […]
Witch City: How to Plan the Perfect Visit to Spooky Salem, Massachusetts

A visit to Salem in the fall, with the Halloween festivities and the beautiful autumn scenery, is what Hocus Pocus fans live for: the New England town and its history will truly put a spell on you. However, you must do some expert planning to enjoy your peak-season trip fully. Here are tips and tricks […]

A visit to Salem in the fall, with the Halloween festivities and the beautiful autumn scenery, is what Hocus Pocus fans live for: the New England town and its history will truly put a spell on you. However, you must do some expert planning to enjoy your peak-season trip fully. Here are tips and tricks […]
You Are Not Alone: Advice, Help and Resources for Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Awareness

The World Health Organization reports that more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death amongst 15 to 19-year-olds, and the pandemic has only exacerbated mental health conditions — spurring a staggering 25% increase in anxiety and depression, according to a new brief by the World Health Organization. […]

The World Health Organization reports that more than 700,000 people die by suicide every year. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death amongst 15 to 19-year-olds, and the pandemic has only exacerbated mental health conditions — spurring a staggering 25% increase in anxiety and depression, according to a new brief by the World Health Organization. […]

About Us

How to Raise More Money for Your Nonprofit: 10 Steps to Supercharged Fundraising
Whether you’re spearheading a grassroots crowdfunding initiative, chairing a million-dollar gala, or serving on a nonprofit board, your goal is the same — help the organization raise more money. In today’s dynamic philanthropic landscape, the cornerstones of successful fundraising are: Ensuring transparency in how donations are utilized. Radiating genuine passion for the cause. Crafting compelling […]
Empowering the Most Impactful Nonprofits: How the Make It Better Foundation Can Help You
Founded with a singular vision to revolutionize the nonprofit sector, the Make It Better Foundation has spent more than a decade identifying, championing, and bolstering the missions of the most transformative nonprofits. Our journey began on May 1, 2007, when we launched as a platform for sharing a unique blend of positive, problem-solving, community-building content […]
You Said It — Share Your Passion and Help a Nonprofit Earn Significant Grants
Own Your Expertise Online Your voice, ideas and engagement are important to help us accomplish our mission. We encourage you to share your ideas and efforts to make the world a better place by submitting a “You Said It.” “You Said It” submissions, as mentioned above, are similar to OpEds — written features which explain […]