211 Metro Chicago Is Meeting a Critical Need – And There Is More We Can Do

United Way of Metro Chicago had been working to launch a 211 helpline for the region for more than a decade. Now, eight months into operating it and serving as Executive Director, I see the benefit 211 is having and understand now more than ever the unique nature of the needs facing Chicagoans and Cook County residents.

Letter to the Editor: Remember to dial 211 for free health and social services help

“I am proud of the impact that 211 Metro Chicago has made on our region and the ways we have integrated this service into the fabric of our community. But there is more to be done to create a fully collaborative web of partners and solve our communities’ greatest challenges.” – Richard LaPratt, Executive Director, 211 Metro Chicago

A Season of Giving and Gratitude

Our chief development officer, Chris Preston, reflects on what it means to him and our team to mobilize the caring power of communities to make a difference.

Financial Equity Will Take The Sum of Us

In Heather McGhee’s “The Sum of Us,” she studies the American economy to understand that, in all equations, racism is the common denominator stifling our economy and our country at large. We spoke with two United Way of Metro Chicago partners to look at the economic impact of institutional racism in Chicago and how philanthropic organizations can help our neighbors close the wealth gap.

The Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund: Lessons in Collaboration Amid Crises

Letter from Our President: March to Recovery with United Way

One year ago, our city and state issued a stay–at–home order as COVID-19 began to spike. I don’t know about you, but what I remember most was fear and uncertainty. What would this mean for our two kids, who were in pre-k and second grade at the time? How could we keep our colleagues and families safe? How long would this last – two weeks, a month, until summer? Frankly, the only thing we were certain about was that we needed to act quickly to help our neighbors.

Giving Campaigns Go Digital

Dr. G Leads the Way

Letter From Our President: COVID-19 Response Fund Update

Training Tomorrow’s Leaders