WHY CHICAGO BEYOND WAS FOUNDED
In 2016, Liz Dozier launched Chicago Beyond with funding from Kimbra and Mark Walter. Initially focused on supporting young people, our organization has since evolved to address systemic inequities by backing solutions led by those directly impacted and transforming how systems operate. Though our model has evolved, our mission remains rooted in improving lives and creating lasting change, reflecting Liz’s work as an educator and high school principal on Chicago’s South Side.
Our Origin Story
In 2009, Liz Dozier was appointed to lead Fenger Academy High School on the South Side of Chicago. During her time as principal, Liz worked hand-in-hand with community members, including students, teachers, families, and staff, to holistically support young people and drive significant school improvement. Over the course of her tenure, student graduation rates doubled (from 40% to 80%), dropout rates decreased (from 20% to 2%), and in-school arrests decreased substantially (from 300 arrests to 10 arrests).
The school’s success was a result of Liz’s leadership, her team’s commitment to holistic educational practices, and the entire school community’s reorientation toward noticing and responding to systemic harm.
At Chicago Beyond, our unwavering commitment to noticing differently, relating differently, and working differently to advance enduring impact is directly tied to our origins and connections to students on Chicago’s South Side. By honoring the contexts in which our work takes place, and the dignity and immense value of the people we work with, we are able to increase the impact of solutions led by those closest to the issues and change the world for the better.
Photo credit:
©️Sandra Steinbrecher
CHICAGO BEYOND TODAY
Chicago Beyond is a national philanthropic organization that addresses systemic inequity by backing solutions led by those closest to the issues. We make strategic investments, lead national initiatives, and provide valuable insights to drive equitable change in philanthropy, justice, health, and beyond. Since our inception in 2016, Chicago Beyond has invested more than $65 million in over 200 individuals and organizations in support of our mission.
While our processes and practices have evolved over time, building a world in which every individual, regardless of zip code, has equitable access to opportunities, remains our vision for the future.
CHICAGO BEYOND TODAY
Chicago Beyond is a national philanthropic organization that addresses systemic inequity by backing solutions led by those closest to the issues. We make strategic investments, lead national initiatives, and provide valuable insights to drive equitable change in philanthropy, justice, health, and beyond. Since our inception in 2016, Chicago Beyond has invested more than $65 million in over 200 individuals and organizations in support of our mission.
While our processes and practices have evolved over time, building a world in which every individual, regardless of zip code, has equitable access to opportunities, remains our vision for the future.
Our History
April
Chicago Beyond is established and invests $3.2 million in four organizations serving young people and communities.
July
Working with IMAN and Chicago CRED, we open a safe house to provide young men with housing, jobs, and support.
July
Dr. Nneka Tapia Jones becomes our first Leader in Residence.
September
Chicago Beyond and the Chicago Blackhawks hold a Leadership Exchange Series with nonprofit leaders.
October
We open our new space in the Fulton Market District, the Home for Social Innovation.
May
“Why am I Always Being Researched” is published to promote equitable research methods.
August
37,000 children are able to enjoy family-friendly, child- centered, visitation experiences with parents who are incarcerated through the Cook County Jail Visitation program.
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Food items0
Hygiene kits0
COVID-19 fact cards0
Gallons of hand sanitizerApril
We support tens of thousands of families during the COVID-19 pandemic with…
March
Justice Initiatives launches to increase wellbeing and safety for all.
March
The CPS Healing-Centered Framework is put into action for the collective wellness of all Chicago Public School students, staff, families, caregivers, and communities.
June
We publish Whole Philanthropy, an articulation of Chicago Beyond’s funding approach, recentering humanity in our work.
October
We kickoff the Rapid Response Fund, granting unrestricted awards to local, community-centered organizations.
January
Jeanine Valrie Logan joins Chicago Beyond as our second Leader in Residence to address inequities in Black maternal health.
April
The Abundance Movement launches to increase funding and reduce barriers for Black-led organizations.
May
“Do I Have the Right to Feel Safe?” is published to instill Holistic Safety inside and outside of correctional walls.
October
We invest $5.2 million in three new Multiyear Investment Partners.
March
Our collaboration with equity leaders kicks off to drive equity initiatives in school districts across the country.
June
The Holistic Safety Action Alliance is announced, working to reduce isolation and instill Holistic Safety in corrections.
March
Chicago Beyond and the NBA Foundation team up to launch a $1 million initiative to invest in Black-led nonprofits driving enrichment and economic opportunity for Black and BIPOC youth in Chicago.
