Chicago Wilderness Secures MacArthur Grant

In late December, The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation awarded a three-year, $600,000 grant to support the core operations of the Chicago Wilderness consortium. "The Foundation believes that organizations like Chicago Wilderness are in the best position to push for real change on issues that cut across neighborhoods and municipalities, such as biodiversity conservation or transportation," said Erika Poethig, program officer at the foundation. "Through its network of organizations committed to maintaining the region's natural areas and environment, we believe Chicago Wilderness will help shape policies that make Chicago and the region a better and healthier place to live and work."

Launched in April 1996 with 34 founding organizations, the Chicago Wilderness consortium now numbers 172 public and private member organizations and includes a 20-member Corporate Council. The consortium has begun work on a strategic plan, is developing a state of the region report card, and has numerous other scientific, resource management, education, and policy initiatives underway all designed to protect, preserve, and restore the biological diversity of the Chicago region.

"This grant is an important sign that our work is gaining recognition," said John Rogner, chair of the Chicago Wilderness Steering Committee, "and that we are making every effort to diversify our sources of support."

For a copy of a recent progress report documenting the work of Chicago Wilderness groups over the last five years, contact Catherine Bendowitz at (312) 580-2156.