Rising Need, Declining Funding: Nonprofit Leaders Warn of Growing Strain on U.S. Social Safety Net

As demand for basic assistance rises and public funding becomes less predictable, nonprofits providing essential services are filling the gaps. That was the clear message from leaders of four of Chicago’s largest social-service organizations at a panel hosted by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Their conversation reflected a broader reality playing out across […]

You Said It — Share Your Passion and Help a Nonprofit Earn Significant Grants

Own Your Expertise Online At Better Magazine, the Make It Better Foundation’s storytelling hub, we partner with nonprofits to tell nationally relevant, evergreen stories that spark generosity and inspire change. A You Said It submission is the entry point into Better Magazine and the Make It Better Foundation’s broader storytelling ecosystem. Through this initiative, nonprofit leaders, advocates, and […]

Can Integrated Health Care Fix a Broken U.S. System? 7 Ways an Illinois Model Shows How

The United States spends more on health care than any other developed nation, yet millions still struggle to access timely, effective treatment. One promising reform gaining traction among policymakers and researchers is integrated care, an approach that unites physical, behavioral, and social health services to treat the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. Health policy experts […]

Chicago's Cultural Stadium Is More Than an Economic Model — It's a Blueprint for Youth Engagement and Belonging

As momentum builds around Chicago’s Cultural Stadium concept, much of the focus so far has been on its potential to drive economic growth. Originally introduced by Broadway In Chicago CEO Lou Raizin, the Cultural Stadium is a visionary framework for reimagining the city’s cultural, civic, and recreational assets — from museums and theaters to parks […]

Can Mentorship Close America’s Graduation Gap?

When Antoine first met his Big Brother, Connor, through Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), their connection was effortless — forged over pickup basketball games, trampoline park outings, and shared plates of good food. What began as simple fun soon became something much more powerful: a steady source of guidance and belonging. After losing his older […]