United Way of Metro Chicago

We were thrilled to recently host leaders from our Neighborhood Networks for an engaging Peer-to-Peer Exchange! ???? Leaders talked about how to successfully execute large community development projects and revitalize their neighborhoods. The Higher Heights Neighborhood Network and Cornerstone Community Development Corporation shared progress on its hydroponics farm. The Park Forest / Richton Park Neighborhood Network and OAI, Inc. also highlighted the Clean Energy Demonstration Site. Both projects support economic growth, job opportunities, and essential resources for residents in the south suburbs. ? #LIVEUNITED

?? “I enjoy the creativity and collaboration involved in planning events. It’s fulfilling to see ideas come to life and make a difference in the community.” “Supporting other women leaders helps us build a network of strength and resilience. This is extremely important for our community to thrive, making sure that diverse voices are genuinely heard and valued.” - Allison Davis, Event Coordinator, Marketing, United Way of Metro Chicago This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting some of the women behind our work. These incredible leaders embody our mission. They bring expertise and compassion as we help build thriving neighborhoods – and a stronger Chicago region. ???? #LIVEUNITED #WomensHistoryMonth #StaffSpotlight

Help fill food pantry shelves! Your donations of nonperishable food and toiletries will be delivered directly to local pantries. Because everyone deserves access to fresh food. ?? Fruit and vegetable juice ?? Rice and beans ?? Canned fruits and veggies ?? Cereal, oatmeal, granola bars ?? Chips, cookies, crackers ?? Canned meats and stews ?? Peanut butter and jelly ?? Baby food and diapers ?? Laundry detergent ?? Soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, menstrual products Drop off your donations on April Food Day, 4/23 between 10am–2pm at the Tinley Park Convention Center. Or in advance at a participating drop-off location. Learn more ?? https://lnkd.in/gc2_eu6z #LIVEUNITED #AprilFoodDay

United Way of Metro Chicago was thrilled to recently join Chicago urban historian S. Dilla Thomas for a special bus tour of Englewood! Dilla shared some of the fascinating history and exciting community development happening in the South Side neighborhood, including the Go Green on Racine Fresh Market and the Peace Campus, a hub of nonprofit programs in a residential area. The Peace Campus' youth program is hosted by TEAMWORK ENGLEWOOD, which is leading the Englewood Neighborhood Network’s transformative work. A special thank you to Dilla and Chicago Mahogany Tours, plus our partners and friends who joined us for the tour. #LIVEUNITED

Do you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)? File your taxes for free! Contact 211 Metro Chicago to get connected to free tax preparation services through the City of Chicago and Ladder Up Chicago. Connect with 2-1-1 today to find a site near you. ?? ?? Call 2-1-1 ?? Text your zip code to 898-211 ?? Visit 211MetroChicago.org 211 Metro Chicago is a free and confidential health and social service helpline for Cook County residents. 2-1-1 is operated by United Way of Metro Chicago, in partnership with the City of Chicago and Cook County Government. #LIVEUNITED #211MetroChicago

?? “I love working in all capacities of finance and get to do so in my role. I really enjoy the team that I work with and the mission of our organization to serve the community.” “It’s important to support other women leaders so they have affirmations that their work is seen, important, and appreciated.” “Community Leadership Fellows (CLF), one of United Way’s fiscal sponsors, received a grant from the Bulls Foundation. In addition to the grant, CLF was offered a suite for the Bulls vs. Pacers game on Dec. 6, 2024. The director shared it as a networking event with other nonprofits and community leaders. I was invited as I’m the finance manager for their organization. It gave me an opportunity to network with influential community leaders, including former Bulls player Joakim Noah (pictured).” - Ebony Brooks, MBA, MSA, Director, Financial and Grant Reporting, United Way of Metro Chicago This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting some of the women behind our work. These incredible leaders embody our mission. They bring expertise and compassion as we help build thriving neighborhoods – and a stronger Chicago region. ???? #LIVEUNITED #WomensHistoryMonth #StaffSpotlight

Another Great Rivers Conference is in the books! United Way of Metro Chicago was thrilled to join 300+ of our Midwest United Way peers in Wisconsin this week. Board Secretary and Executive Administrator Lissette Huertas, Community Engagement Manager Ariadna DeGrange, and Director of Public Policy and Advocacy Eithne McMenamin attended engaging breakout sessions and networking opportunities. Our very own Eithne presented at a learning exchange for Illinois colleagues to connect and share state-level initiatives. United Way of Wisconsin #LIVEUNITED

?? “My favorite parts of my role are getting the chance to be creative in teaching our staff valuable skills. I especially enjoy hearing from staff that they found the training helpful and are utilizing the skills learned to help them save time and work more effectively. I’m a former classroom teacher. I’ve always felt absolutely delighted when people learn and grow from the classes I teach.” “I think it’s important to support other women leaders because I believe it’s only by lifting each other up that we can break down barriers that have limited opportunities for women throughout history. Women leaders often face unique challenges. If we can support each other, we can empower each other – which I think can then lead to strengthening our entire community.” - Carla Iwanski, Director, Workforce Training and Development, United Way of Metro Chicago This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting some of the women behind our work. These incredible leaders embody our mission. They bring expertise and compassion as we help build thriving neighborhoods – and a stronger Chicago region. ???? #LIVEUNITED #WomensHistoryMonth #StaffSpotlight

United Way of Metro Chicago is honored to be a recipient of a grant from Bank of America! Our generous partners like Bank of America make our work alongside community partners possible. Together, we are transforming neighborhoods from the inside out. Creating communities – and a Chicago region – where all people can thrive. #LIVEUNITED

?? “Having the opportunity to give back to my community is incredibly important. The best part of my role is speaking with individuals who have had their needs met as a direct result of a 2-1-1 referral. I am inspired, knowing that we have made an impact and a positive contribution.” “Many of our most thoughtful and strategic leaders are female. Even in this day and age, women’s voices are often suppressed. It is important to have a unified voice and consistently support one another. It is crucial in achieving progress.” - Hai-Chau Carroll, Director, Training & Quality Assurance, 211 Metro Chicago This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting some of the women behind our work. These incredible leaders embody our mission. They bring expertise and compassion as we help build thriving neighborhoods – and a stronger Chicago region. ???? #LIVEUNITED #WomensHistoryMonth #StaffSpotlight