Friends of the Children-Chicago receives a $1.4 Million gift from MacKenzie Scott

Friends of the Children-Chicago has received a $1.4 million contribution from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. This is the largest single gift we’ve ever received. Friends of the Children-National and 11 other chapters also received contributions from Ms. Scott.

This award acknowledges our proven and unique model, and recognizes that with in-depth, long-term support, every child can thrive.

With these funds, we will be able to pursue our top priorities, keeping our children and families at the core. We promise to:

• Fulfill our commitment to every child in our program – 12.5 years, no matter what.
• Reach more youth by expanding services to the South Side and beyond.
• Invest in our staff and infrastructure so that we grow sustainably and sensibly.

MacKenzie Scott’s gift comes on the heels of major grants from Cook County and the State of Illinois. All these funders have rigorous review processes; they validate that Friends-Chicago has a proven approach for making a difference in the lives of children.

These gifts are a down payment on a stronger and more impactful Friends-Chicago. They give us the confidence and flexibility – and the obligation – to grow our community of supporters. Our responsibility to our children is absolute, so any expansion must be undertaken with the assurance that we will be here for them year after year.

We have much to be grateful for and much work to do as we continue to walk beside our youth for the long run.

If you would like to learn more about our work, please contact our Development and Communications Manager, Emma Pressel, at epressel@friendschicago.org.