When disaster strikes, Americans respond. Our instinct to help, our “Can Do” spirit, and our deep love of community propel us to extraordinary acts of kindness, generosity, and ingenuity. The recent catastrophic fires in Los Angeles were no exception. From heartbreaking scenes of destruction to inspiring stories of resilience, the fires drew out the best of humanity. […]
If a friend sends you a bouquet, says Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas, the science director at the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley, don’t just say “Thank you.” Instead, expand it to something like, “Thank you so much for sending me tuberoses; you know that those are my favorite. I felt so […]
In October, we shared the story of the Carleo family, whose bank accounts were cleaned out to the tune of $130,000 after a mysterious phone call. The Carleos got their money back only after a little media attention. Thefts like what happened to them continue to proliferate — so it’s time to take extra precautions […]
The devastating wildfires that swept through the Los Angeles area last week, fueled by powerful winds and severe drought conditions, have taken the lives of at least 27 people, destroyed thousands of structures, and forced mass evacuations. The Palisades Fire alone has consumed over 23,000 acres and damaged or destroyed more than 5,300 structures, while […]
Before the big game kicks off this Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 9, 2025, you can make a big impact and help save lives at one of Chicagoland’s largest American Red Cross blood drives. Hosted at Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish in Wilmette, IL, the Kevin Joseph Smith Burke Blood Drive is celebrating its 10th […]
For many youth athletes, the new year marks the start of a new winter sport season or early preparations for the spring season, along with the excitement, expectations and, in some cases — concerns that can accompany it. Here’s some expert advice — and a new app every parent should download — to help young athletes navigate […]
A decade of transformative impact was celebrated at ASCENSION, Surge Institute‘s 10th anniversary celebration, which brought together alumni, supporters, and special guests to honor the organization’s decade-long mission of empowering leaders of color in the education sector. Held Nov. 7, 2024 at WildmanBT in Chicago, the evening was a powerful blend of inspiring storytelling, meaningful […]
I was 16 years old when I discovered the power of civic engagement thanks to the blood drives at my high school in Elgin. Larkin High School held four blood drives a year, and they were much more than just donating blood so that we could get out of class for an hour — they […]
Wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, with tens of thousands of residents evacuated in Los Angeles County and thousands of structures destroyed. Fueled by powerful winds, the Palisades, Eaton, and Hurst fires have devastated communities, leaving residents grappling with loss and displacement. The fires have already claimed at least two lives and caused a significant […]
Anyone living in the Chicago area knows winter weather can be brutal — even with the right gear. But many Chicago students lack sufficient winter outerwear, and this can mean the difference between walking safely to school and staying home. To provide Chicago children with warm winter essentials, Cradles to Crayons Chicago hosted its 9th […]
