Chicago Beyond

About Chicago Beyond

Chicago Beyond backs the fight for youth equity by fueling organizations, individuals, and learning. Our vision is to ensure all young people, regardless of their zip code, have the opportunity to achieve their fullest human potential. Since our launch in 2016, Chicago Beyond has invested more than $30 million in 14 local nonprofit organizations and a community leader that are working to create more equitable opportunities for youth. Beyond the dollars, we work hand in hand with our partners and serve as a strategic partner to help grow their impact.

In 2019, Chicago Beyond published Why Am I Always Being Researched?, a guidebook designed for funders, researchers, and community organizations on how to deconstruct harmful power dynamics when researching communities. We also recently opened a new space, designed intentionally to serve as Chicago’s home for social innovation. 

Chicago Beyond was founded by Liz Dozier, a nationally renowned former educator and high school principal. Chicago Beyond has been highlighted on several national stages, including the Obama Foundation Summit, Aspen Ideas Festival, Chicago Ideas Week, and SXSWedu.

To learn more, please visit ChicagoBeyond.org.