Founded in 2016 by Arne Duncan and Laurene Powell Jobs, Chicago CRED (Create Real Economic Destiny) aims to reduce gun violence in Chicago by addressing root causes and providing alternative pathways for high-risk individuals. The program includes street outreach, life coaching, therapy, education, and job training. Participants engage in a 12-24 month program with a stipend. CRED has helped around 1,000 individuals secure jobs, reducing violent crime arrests among participants by 73%. Funded by the Emerson Collective, CRED proves both socially beneficial and cost-effective.

Founded in 2003, Phalanx Family Services is a dedicated non-profit organization aiding economically disadvantaged children and families toward self-sufficiency. Operating in challenging urban areas, Phalanx provides job readiness and vocational training, employment placement, crisis prevention, and direct financial support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Phalanx enhanced community support by organizing free outdoor events, distributing essential food and clothing, and offering vaccination incentives. These initiatives have been crucial in sustaining community well-being and resilience during the health crisis.

The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a leading private foundation established in the 1970s. It supports creative individuals, effective institutions, and powerful networks to build a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. Key efforts include promoting climate solutions, criminal justice reform, fighting corruption in Nigeria, supporting independent journalism, exploring technology's societal impacts, and enhancing girls' education in developing countries. Renowned for its MacArthur Fellows Program, the foundation distributes hundreds of millions annually to impactful projects.

Aetna Inc. is an American managed health care company that sells traditional and consumer directed health care insurance and related services, such as medical, pharmaceutical, dental, behavioral health, long-term care, and disability plans, primarily through employer-paid (fully or partly) insurance and benefit programs, and through Medicare. Since November 28, 2018, the company has been a subsidiary of CVS Health.

Established in 1997, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is a pivotal state agency committed to enhancing the well-being of Illinois residents. IDHS offers a comprehensive array of social services aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and independence among individuals and families. The department's extensive portfolio includes mental health care, substance use prevention, support for those with developmental disabilities, rehabilitation services, and assistance for low-income families. Through these programs, IDHS actively works to address the diverse needs of the state’s population, helping to forge stronger, healthier communities across Illinois. Residents can access services or learn more about available support through the IDHS website or local offices.

Liz Dozier founded Chicago Beyond in 2016, a philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing youth equity. By investing over $40 million in community-led initiatives, Chicago Beyond supports young people in reaching their full potential. The organization's 'Whole Philanthropy' approach funds projects that tackle critical issues such as youth safety, restorative justice, mental health, and education. Recently, they introduced a $5 million Black Maternal Health Fellows program, aimed at enhancing U.S. maternal healthcare outcomes by empowering Black maternal health leaders.