Community Power Building

We invest in organizations that advance resident-defined agendas to drive transformational change and improve community wellbeing.

Gateway arch spanning 26th Street in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood with 'Bienvenidos a Little Village' welcome sign

Lasting change happens when residents define the agenda, drive the solutions, and lead the way. That’s what community power building looks like in Chicago.

With a focus on the city’s South and West Sides, where our analysis indicates areas of greatest need, we fund organizations that strengthen collective action and amplify community voices — because when residents have the tools and resources to lead, communities thrive. Our approach balances immediate impact with long-term transformation:

supporting urgent needs today while building the civic infrastructure that enables residents to drive lasting, meaningful change in their communities.

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Our Work

A painted fence mural in a Chicago neighborhood displaying the words "Connect," "Build," and "Take Action" in bold red, green, and yellow letters against a black background.

Invests in civic infrastructure, organizers, and initiatives that help communities address their most pressing needs

A woman smiles broadly at an outdoor community event, her face painted with a colorful star and swirling design in pink, yellow, and white. Vendor tents are visible in the background.

Amplifies community voices and strengthens collective action

The word "PEACE" painted across the windows of a historic red brick building in Chicago, framed by mature trees and a small green lawn.

Balances immediate impact with long-term transformation

When communities have the power to define their own futures, everyone in Chicago wins.

Jasmine is pictured in an open space with a textured background. She is smiling and wearing a tan blazer over a tan sweater with a gold necklace and earrings.
Jasmine H. Benjamin, PhD

Program Officer for Community Investments