On the Scene: The McCormick Foundation Blog

by Megan Everett, Veterans Program Officer  Veterans from all eras face a unique set of opportunities and challenges when transitioning from military service back to civilian life. When servicemembers return to their communities, it is often challenging and overwhelming to navigate the various services and matching them to their own needs. Faith is a natural place for people to turn to in times of need. It is this pre-existing infrastructure that has prompted the faith-based and the social service communities to come together to help veterans and their families.  In fall 2014, faith-based leaders, mental health practitioners, veteran service providers, pastoral care practitioners and other interested parties came together to launch the Multi-Faith Veterans Support Project (MVP), a new effort to pilot projects that will enhance the quality of life for veterans and their families. The Steans Center's Egan Office for Urban Education and Community Partnerships at DePaul ...

by Phil Zepeda, Director of Communications Robert R. McCormick was one of Chicago’s first major philanthropists, with his generosity helping to shape the city he loved. In 2015, the Foundation that bears his name will mark the 60th anniversary of its establishment. Over that time, the McCormick Foundation has touched the lives of thousands of people, contributing more than one billion dollars to journalism, education, community action, social and economic services and civic engagement. The McCormick Foundation is marking the year with special partnerships and events for the communities in and around Chicago. Also celebrating 60 years of its commitment to Chicago is WTTW/Channel 11. Through special support of their premiere news program Chicago Tonight, regular pledge drives, and special community screenings, the Foundation will help trumpet the tremendous value that the station has added to our lives since its first broadcast. Through an enhanced partnership with the Donors For...

by Beth Swanson, Vice President of Strategy and Programs, Joyce Foundation (Chair, Thrive Chicago Board of Directors) and Tom Vanden Berk, Chief Executive Officer, UCAN/Peace Hub (Member, Thrive Chicago Board of Directors)  When he laid out his education priorities for the next four years, Mayor Emanuel made it clear that while Chicago has made great strides in its educational outcomes, we still have a long way to go. The Mayor plans to expand high-quality education choices at neighborhood schools throughout the city and empower parents and school leaders to improve their local schools. However, he won’t be able to achieve these outcomes alone. As he said, he’ll need to harness the combined might of parents, teachers, and principals. And in addition, he will need to tap the collective power of non-profits and community groups that support Chicago’s young people every day. Previously incubated in the Mayor’s Office and now launching as a community-led, independent organization, ...