We’re All In

In the past six years the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation has been inspired by the generosity of our residents and neighbors. We see how collectively we can transform and modernize philanthropy. And with courage, the Foundation is pursuing new avenues to do just that — to uphold our promise to be of better service to our partners, and to the greater west side. We’re all in this together.

We understand that our work, from grant-making to our investment portfolio to how we operate overall, must intentionally and comprehensively address the racial disparities that exist in order for all members of our community to thrive and prosper. From Community Voices, our landmark report on community needs for West Cook County, to hiring a new outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) to invest in 100% mission-aligned investments, to our new community-informed grantmaking strategy focused on safety and belonging and mental health, we are all in. We’re grateful for our capable staff, our committed board of directors, and the organizations, businesses, and civic leaders who share our values and are all in too.

Together we provide support for our most vulnerable residents and continue to address the socio-economic and racial disparities keeping each individual from living a fulfilled life. The organizations in the Season of Giving guide need your help to continue to do this important work. We need the engagement and involvement of the whole community in order to reach that goal and move our region forward. We hope you’ll join us.