A childhood full of toys, for many of us, often meant a childhood made possible by the vision of Mattel. With brands such as the iconic Barbie, Hot Wheels, American Girl and countless others, it’s no wonder Mattel has become the standard in regards to childhood play. To continue that legacy, the company had to […]
The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that over six million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia. Each of these people need care, and that care is frequently provided by over 11 million unpaid caregivers: spouses, siblings, children, or sometimes just concerned friends and neighbors. More than half of these caregivers are employed […]
In 2015, the United Nations proposed a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and improve the lives and prospects of everyone, everywhere by 2030. Seventeen goals were adopted by all UN Member States as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Although progress is being made, with less than a decade […]
Looking for proof that living with “It’s a Wonderful Life” values can nurture great businesses as well as strong families and communities? Look no further than Ed Wehmer. As founder, president and CEO of Wintrust Financial Corporation, Wehmer is widely considered Chicago’s most successful banker. And you could say he’s an even more successful family […]
Kecia Steelman has what many would call a “dream job” as Chief Operating Officer of the country’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty, but getting to that role wasn’t always so rosy for her. Steelman’s humble beginnings started in a lower middle class family in a small farming community in Iowa. Her parents divorced when she […]
Many ultra-high-net-worth families rely on a family office and family law practice to help manage their finances, investments, long-term planning and charitable giving. These services are even more helpful to blended families who may come from different backgrounds, with different assets and different financial histories. To discuss best practices for establishing a blended family office […]
Effectively operating in the nonprofit sector — specifically, working hand-in-hand with some of our most vulnerable community members — requires the ability to meet people where they are at, and an eagerness to offer assistance as opposed to passing judgment. This mentality has guided Ric Estrada, CEO of Metropolitan Family Services (MFS), who has served […]
Family-owned businesses are considered the backbone of the American economy. According to the US Census Bureau, they comprise 90% of all business enterprises in North America. Jill McCall, MBA, JD, CAE, Director of the Family Business Center at Loyola University Chicago says, “Family-owned businesses positively impact the general business climate because they set good examples. […]
Portillo’s President and CEO, Michael Osanloo, joined the Executives’ Club of Chicago to discuss how the beloved Chicago restaurant reaches a new legion of fans nationwide. Based on his successful career in food service and retail, Osanloo sat with moderator Andy Lansing, CEO of Levy, to discuss lessons learned and his passion for growing brands […]
Within Chicagoland is a network of organizations, businesses and nonprofits that all aspire to do good for the larger community. Partnerships between these institutions are imperative, but what’s the best way to foster and sustain them, maximizing impact for all? To answer this question and more, Make It Better Media Group hosted a virtual discussion […]
