Inclusion isn’t just being invited to the party — it’s being asked to dance. The metaphor is simple, but the message runs deep: real inclusion means making sure everyone feels seen, valued, and involved — not just present. And teaching that kind of inclusion starts early. Experts in child development, education, and disability advocacy agree: […]
The early days of January brought devastation to the Los Angeles area as the Palisades and Eaton Fires swept through, leaving a trail of loss in their wake. In addition to the destruction of homes, families faced another heartbreaking blow: the disruption of community anchors — most notably the stability and connection provided by schools. […]
Aimee Nolan’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 55 years old. At the time, Aimee was living out of state with two young children of her own, so her grandmother stepped in as caregiver — supporting Aimee’s mother until her passing at 62. Heartbreakingly, Aimee’s grandmother died just 10 days later, perhaps with […]
Music Theater Works’ annual gala, the Producers Gala: Luck Be a Lady, was held Saturday, April 5, at the Michigan Shores Club. The 2025 fundraiser broke previous gala records, raising more than $220,000 with 200 guests attending. The night included performances, live auctions, a paddle raise, gaming, and the presentation of the fourth annual Joyce […]
As Goodman Theatre approaches its 2025/2026 Centennial Season, the theater’s commitment to storytelling beyond the stage is stronger than ever. Through education and engagement programs that reach Chicagoans of all ages — from toddlers experiencing live performance for the first time to older adults reflecting on their lives through storytelling — the Goodman fosters meaningful […]
Whether they’re supporting education and mental health causes, investing, or helping care for their grandchildren, Liz and Kent Dauten offer a compelling model for how values can guide every aspect of life and work. As recipients of the Big Shoulders Fund’s 2025 Humanitarian Award, they exemplify what it looks like to lead with purpose — […]
The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago proudly celebrated the 2025 class of heroes at the annual Red Cross Heroes Breakfast on April 30. These individuals have gone above and beyond to build stronger, safer communities and have made a lasting impact through their selfless actions. The Heroes Breakfast was established to raise public awareness of local heroes […]
Language shapes how we understand the world and each other. In discussions about disability and inclusion, the words we use can either affirm and uplift or alienate and harm. Choosing the right language is essential to fostering a world where everyone feels valued and included. When talking about disability, some people avoid the term entirely, […]
In the 1960s, Myra Alexander fought against racism.Bill Koza craved tolerance toward gay people.Della Reuther protested against war.Ben Bearskin preserved Native American culture.Mary Ward Wolkonsky promoted the civic role of women.Leon Beverly battled for union workers and neighbors.And Blanche Gates, a widowed mother of 15, kept her family strong. The stories of these seven Chicagoans […]
The town of Highland Park, a tight-knit community north of Chicago, has been grappling with the fallout of the July 4, 2022, mass shooting that turned a holiday parade into a scene of horror. Seven people were killed and nearly 50 others injured when a rooftop gunman opened fire with an AR-style rifle. Nearly three […]
