Who We Are
Rooted in Relationships
Chicago Frontlines Fund responsibly invests in community-led solutions that address the interconnected economic and climate crises. Since our origins in Chicago’s EJ movement, we continue to build authentic relationships and deep trust with local leaders. These relationships allow us to respond to immediate needs while consistently funding long-term community-led visions.
We’ve granted nearly $8 Million directly to frontline communities since 2020.
Theory of Change
Ownership and control over land is key to community sovereignty
We believe in grassroots organizing and advocacy, but without ownership and control over land, communities are vulnerable to injustices. Therefore, we work with donor allies to support frontline organizations to build power and to lead the ethical revitalization of their communities.
The power of place and the brillance of grassroots leadership
We believe in the power of place and the brilliance of grassroots leadership. Yet, those that step into leadership roles are often overwhelmed and need multiple forms of support to succeed.
Resourcing future visions of place and investing in movement support
Knowing this, we pool funds from donors to provide holistic resources to our grantee partners so that they can sustain a culture of care as they protect their communities. Through resourcing future visions of place and investing in movement support, our funding approach gives frontline organizations the collective confidence to achieve safety in their everyday lives and sovereignty over the community they desire.
