ABOUT US
From Toy Drive to National Recognition
ChiGivesBack is a Chicago-based nonprofit rooted in one simple belief: when our city comes together, everyone rises.
What started as a small holiday toy drive has grown into a movement dedicated to supporting families, students, educators, and neighborhoods year-round. Today, ChiGivesBack is a trusted Chicago nonprofit that turns compassion into action through strategic partnerships, innovative programs, and community service, and we’ve been recognized by local community organizations, news outlets, and national magazines.
Through signature programs like Friendsgiving, Labor of Love, #Teach2Give, and the Chicagoland Toy Drive, we bring people, partners, and purpose together to create real impact where it’s needed most. From providing school supplies and classroom resources to hosting citywide service events and honoring everyday heroes, we do it all with good people, good energy, and a lot of heart.
“Give back and let people see there’s hope and love…”
Tyesa Walton, Random Acts of Kindness + #Teach2Give Recipient
OUR HISTORY
Rooted in Chicago, Grown by Neighbors
Created a toy drive to give toys to kids in women shelters
2017
Founded in 2018 with a simple idea, give back to Chicago in meaningful ways, ChiGivesBack began with MLK Jr. Day of Service, transforming classrooms and small businesses through beautification projects.
Random Acts of Kindness expanded our reach, delivering microgrants, scholarships, and critical resources when they were needed most.
Today, #Teach2Give celebrates Chicago’s educators and Friendsgiving brings neighbors together around the table.
2018-2020
Grew flagship programs like the Chicagoland Toy Drive and Labor of Love, serving thousands of families, students, and educators.
Introduced new collaborations with local artists, chefs, and partners to expand cultural and food-focused initiatives.
2021-2023
With the support of 460+ volunteers, 40+ corporate partners, and thousands of donors, ChiGivesBack impacted over 7,000 Chicagoans in a single year and counting.
2024- CURRENT
What We Stand For
ChiGivesBack is built on action, collaboration, and heart. We’re proud to be a bridge between those who want to give and the communities that need it most. This is what giving back looks like in Chicago—bold, consistent, and full of love for our city. At ChiGivesBack, our work is guided by values that keep us grounded, accountable, and inspired.
Integrity
We are committed to honesty, transparency, and ethical practices in everything we do.
Community Collaboration
We build initiatives that bring together individuals, organizations, and businesses to create collective impact.
Volunteerism
We believe in the power of people. By encouraging active participation, we turn compassion into action and create lasting community investment.
Innovation
We embrace new ideas, creative approaches, and bold solutions to drive social change and expand our impact.
Service
We strengthen relationships by listening, learning, and collaborating directly with the people we serve.
Inclusion
We ensure equitable opportunities and accessibility for all, with a focus on underserved populations.