Chicago’s tradition of civic leadership helped build the city we know today — but who will carry that legacy forward? Discover how United Way’s ChiNEXT program is inspiring a new generation of leaders through hands-on experiences and community engagement.
Thank you for being a part of our work together this past year. Our partners across the region have continued to show up, helping our neighbors meet their basic needs and driving neighborhood transformation. United Way has celebrated big wins — and we have much to look forward to in the year to come.
The past couple of months have been a uniquely challenging time for our city and surrounding communities. The amazing thing to me is that, through all the amplified complexities, our partners continue to show an unmatched resolve and commitment to ensure families are safe and that the progress achieved to date continues.
I was recently in Little Village for lunch with leaders from Latinos Progresando and Enlace Chicago. It was striking how little economic activity was taking place . . . and shows the stark reality of the economic impacts being felt in many of our neighborhoods across the region. At the same time, talking to our partners about the ways they are supporting families, helping students get to school, and ensuring access to food was inspiring.
Richard Chew is joined in studio by Dr. Kimberlee Guenther, chief impact officer with United Way of Metro Chicago, on United Way’s Neighborhood Network Initiative.
Strong organizations need strong leaders. That’s why United Way of Metro Chicago is building up the next generation of leaders through our innovative board service programming.
The challenges impacting our region and our world are myriad, and they are urgent. It can be hard to know what to do next when one wants to make a difference. Board service could be the answer.
As we welcome 2025, I am grateful for everything we have accomplished together – and excited about what’s to come in the year ahead.
Almost six years ago, Crain’s Chicago Business published an article asking, “Does the world still need United Way?” Crain’s was right that United Way needed to evolve. Five years later, under the leadership of President and CEO Sean Garrett, the new United Way of Metro Chicago has an entirely new model and is making a tangible impact across the region.
Five years ago, Sean Garrett was appointed to lead United Way of Metro Chicago as president and CEO. Now, he’s reflecting on all we have accomplished together – and what’s to come.