From Blockbuster Movies to Lollapalooza: How Chicago Philharmonic Is Breaking Genre Barriers and Changing the Game for Orchestras

The Chicago Philharmonic, now celebrating its 35th season, is asking a very important question: How do we make orchestra concerts for everyone? The orchestra, founded in 1989 by principal musicians of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, has long occupied a unique space within the city’s performing arts ecosystem.  The organization eschews the traditional audition/tenure system for […]

30 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in June 2024

School’s out for summer and that sun-filled surge of seasonal fun throughout Chicago and the suburbs starts now. From art fairs to food fests, Pride Month to Juneteenth, there are countless ways to celebrate summer, party with purpose, and support deserving local nonprofits. To help you get started, here are 30 of the best things […]

UNICEF CEO Discusses Launch of New Multimedia Experience 'Heart Strings: Creating Connection to the World's Children'

Michael J. Nyenhuis, president and CEO of UNICEF USA since March 2020, sat down with Make It Better founder Susan B. Noyes to share his insight and excitement about the launch of “Heart Strings: Creating Connection To The World’s Children.” The interactive, multimedia experience, a collaboration between UNICEF USA and award-winning multimedia studio Moment Factory, […]

The Best Chicago Charity Galas to Attend in 2024

Although outstanding nonprofit galas occur throughout the calendar year, May is a particular strong month in Chicago for important parties with a purpose. Enjoy the following events, which offer action-packed days and evenings filled with socializing, dinners, cocktails, performances, dancing and more knowing that your participation creates extraordinary impact for others, too. And please read further for […]

Celebrate Chicagoland Heroes: Support the Red Cross Now and Double Your Impact With This Donation-Matching Opportunity

July 2023 saw record-breaking floods on Chicago’s Westside, causing severe home and property damage in the city’s Austin neighborhood. As a longtime Austin resident and community advocate, Jacqueline Reed spearheaded relief efforts, mobilizing resources and volunteers to help 75 homes become habitable.  That same month, Firefighter and Paramedic Nicholas DeLeon encountered an active shooter at […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs This May 2024

Chicago’s greenery isn’t the only thing that flourishes in May. With the warmer weather, the city comes alive with outdoor — and indoor — marketplaces, eateries, performances, exhibits, community events and more. Whether you’re looking for something free to do on the weekend or want to grab tickets to Chicago’s hottest events — we’ve rounded […]