This April, United Way of Metro Chicago is putting a spin on the traditional bake sale — its Young Leaders United (YLU) affinity group is hosting IGNITE, a virtual dessert party led by Boka Restaurant Group.

Reports of domestic violence in Chicago have surged by 15 percent during the COVID-19 pandemic as couples and families are quarantining at home. Survivors are also facing income and job loss, making it even more difficult to afford to leave an abusive situation.

United Way of Illinois is launching a ’21 Week Equity Challenge’ this week. Following a year of unrest and strife, this free, online learning program will provide lessons and resources for Illinoisians to learn about racial issues and systemic inequalities, together.

United Way of Metro Chicago announced the single largest donation in the organization’s history. MacKenzie Scott donated $25 million to accelerate United Way’s work advancing neighborhood equity and creating communities where children and families can thrive.

United Way of Metro Chicago and the law firm of Jenner & Block announced today that Jenner & Block litigation Partner Andrew W. Vail has agreed to serve as the first-ever United Way general counsel. In this role, Mr. Vail will provide important strategic advice and pro bono legal counsel to help the United Way and its partners throughout Chicagoland fulfill the organization’s mission of improving communities and the common good.