United Way of Metro Chicago’s very first Neighborhood Network launched in Brighton Park more than a decade ago. Now, after years of hard work and community-led vision, the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council Service Center is a beacon of hope — and opportunity — on the Southwest Side.
On the South Side of Chicago, the Green Era Campus is an ambitious, community-led project transforming food waste into clean energy, local jobs, and long-term neighborhood wealth. United Way of Metro Chicago, BMO, and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation are thrilled to invest in what’s next.
North Lawndale is making waves on the West Side. The historically rich community is the latest to join United Way of Metro Chicago’s Neighborhood Network Initiative.
The early childhood education and youth development nonprofit unveiled its renovated flagship site in Little Village earlier this month. United Way of Metro Chicago was thrilled to attend the ribbon cutting — and support the community’s milestone through One Lawndale and the Little Village Neighborhood Network.
South Chicago is reclaiming its story — and embracing a new beginning. The Southeast Side’s 2026 Quality of Life Plan will guide transformative community development projects, creating a vibrant neighborhood and brighter future for residents.
More than 1,000 families received toys, food, and winter essentials to help meet their basic needs this season — and reclaim holiday joy.
The mentorship nonprofit recently cut the ribbon on the Empowerment Center on the South Side – and United Way was there to celebrate.
“When one door closes, another one opens.” United Way of Metro Chicago joined our partners on the West Side to celebrate the rebirth of the shuttered school – and the grand opening of the Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation.
United Way’s biggest food collection event of the year distributed 109,000+ pounds of food to 10 local pantries and honored the Southland’s movers and shakers.
The need for food is historically high. Northern Illinois Food Bank is rising to the challenge – and helping neighbors thrive.