Chicago Women in Philanthropy January Newsletter

A Letter from the CWIP

Board Co-Chairs

Dear CWIP Members,

As we begin a new year, we do so with deep gratitude for the strength, momentum, and shared purpose of the Chicago Women in Philanthropy community. For more than four decades, CWIP has stood alongside women and girls across Chicagoland, and in this moment, our collective leadership and engagement matter more than ever.

In the past year alone, CWIP grew its membership by more than 40%. We are now nearly 500 individuals strong, affirming the power of our network and the importance to community-centered philanthropy. Together, we engaged more than 100 women and girls through professional mentoring, including a newly launched high school career fair, and delivered sold-out programs such as Face-to-Face with Funders. We also leaned into meaningful dialogue, engaging deeply in conversations on racial equity and social justice that continue to shape our work and values.

At a time when many communities, including immigrant and LGBTQIA+ communities, are navigating increasing uncertainty, CWIP remains steadfast in its commitment to equity, inclusion, and action. Our voice, our presence, and our willingness to show up together are essential.

Looking ahead, we invite you to stay engaged and connected through our programs, partnerships, and join us for an upcoming “Day of Service” as we turn shared values into tangible impact. This is a moment to act with intention and purpose, and we are grateful to do so alongside you.

Thank you for your leadership, generosity, and continued belief in the collective power of our social and philanthropic sectors. We look forward to all we will accomplish together in the new year.

With appreciation,

Margaret Jones and Diane Knoepke

CWIP Board Co-Chairs

CWIP in Focus: Voices in Our Sector

Welcoming New Board Member

Ailiana Denis

We are so excited to welcome Ailiana as our newest CWIP Board Member! Her dedication to our sector and to CWIP has had ripple effects. Learn more about her professional journey, personal connections, and impact on CWIP in our most recent CWIP in Focus: Voices in Our Sector feature.

Check out our recent features on Alexandria Alyse Walker and Jacki Davidoff!

Do you know someone in CWIP who should be spotlighted in an upcoming Voices in Our Sector blog? Recommend them through our quick form here!

CWIP Making a Difference Luncheon: An Opportunity to Connect and Lead

Join CWIP on May 5, 2026, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm at the Chicago Marriott Downtown for the CWIP Making a Difference Luncheon, a signature gathering of leaders committed to strengthening our professional community and advancing opportunity. The luncheon offers a valuable opportunity to connect with senior leaders across sectors, build meaningful relationships, and be inspired in your work in non-profits.

This year CWIP is proud to honor Andrea Sáenz, President and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust. She brings deep public sector and nonprofit experience, with prior leadership roles at the Chicago Public Library, Chicago Public Schools, the U.S. Department of Education, and community-based organizations dedicated to increasing Latine career success. Her leadership reflects a sustained commitment to expanding access to opportunities across the Chicago region and strengthening institutions that serve our communities.

Sponsorship opportunities are now available and include recognition in a variety of ways throughout the Luncheon. Sponsorship provides high visibility, demonstrates leadership, and directly supports CWIP’s mission to build an inclusive community to empower women. We encourage organizations to explore how sponsorship can expand awareness among CWIP’s engaged and influential membership.

Learn more about the event, register, and explore sponsorship options on the CWIP website.

And, in case you missed it, CWIP has launched a new Fundraising Committee to

support the Luncheon and other CWIP programming. The committee is actively

recruiting. If interested, please complete this form.

Second Annual Holiday Party

On December 9th, our CWIP community came together for our second annual members-only Holiday Party! Hosted at Taste 222, 150 attendees came together to enjoy community building, delicious appetizers and celebrate the holiday season with fellow philanthropy professionals.

With a sold-out crowd, the room was buzzing with laughter, conversation and holiday cheer. The night truly reflected the warmth and spirit of the CWIP community.

Take a look back at all the moments from the night by viewing the event photos here!

Interested in joining us for events like this in the future? Become a CWIP member and enjoy access to exclusive members-only gatherings, including our holiday party later this year. Learn more about CWIP membership here.

CWIP is committed to supporting women and girls—and through them, strengthening communities across Chicago. As part of that commitment, we’re excited to announce our inaugural CWIP Day of Service, giving members the chance to come together to build community and support organizations making a difference around Chicago.

These events are a meaningful way to give back while connecting with fellow CWIP members. We hope to see you there!

Here’s what’s ahead:

Two CWIP Volunteer Days open to all CWIP members in the first quarter of 2026

Day of Service | New Life Centers

Friday, February 20 | 9:00 - 11:00 AM

Day of Service | Nourishing Hope

Saturday, February 21 | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Keep an eye on our CWIP calendar for updates and other upcoming events!

View Our Event Calendar!

Join the CWIP Community

Chicago Women in Philanthropy (CWIP) is a community of philanthropic, corporate-giving, and nonprofit women and non-binary individuals. Our members are passionate about helping women and girls advance in society. Our mission is to build an inclusive community that educates and empowers Chicagoland women to grow personally and professionally and to advocate boldly for themselves and their communities.

Join CWIP or Renew Your Membership

Join a Committee

Check Out CWIP's Career Center

Chicago Women in Philanthropy's Career Center features job opportunities across nonprofit, philanthropic, and mission-driven organizations in the Chicago area. Our platform connects organizations with talented professionals dedicated to making an impact.

View Career Center

Submit an Opening

CWIP’s work would not be possible without the generous support of our members. Thank you to those who donated during the Annual Luncheon event. With your support, we raised more than $170,000 to power CWIP’s efforts advancing leadership, equity, and opportunity for women and girls across Chicago. If you’d like to support CWIP further, please consider making a donation so we can continue to elevate women and girls—and create a more connected social sector in our great city.

Make A Donation to Support CWIP's Work in 2026