Make It Better Foundation

02/07/2025

Every year on February 7, the world comes together for Reverse the Red Day—a global movement to stop extinctions and protect endangered species. This initiative drives real conservation action, proving that when we work together, we can turn the tide for biodiversity. 🌍

This year, Chicago is making an impact. Brookfield Zoo Chicago, Chicago Botanic Garden, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and The Morton Arboretum have pledged to protect 42 species worldwide. From Blanding’s turtles in the Great Lakes to pangolins in Africa, these institutions are proving that cities can lead the way in conservation.

Want to learn more about their commitments and how you can help? Check out the link below or visit their profiles tagged! Let us know how you're getting involved this Reverse the Red Day!

https://linktr.ee/themakeitbetterfoundation

02/06/2025

Finding time for family dinners can feel overwhelming with work, school, extracurriculars—or even bigger obligations like military deployments. But meaningful connection doesn’t have to mean everyone being in the same place at the same time.

Here are tips inspired by active-duty military families in Blue Star Families:
✨ Write a note for absent family members to add to later.
✨ Use FaceTime or Skype to pull up a seat at the table.
✨ Share moments over breakfast, dessert, or late-night snacks.

Even in life’s busiest seasons, there’s always a way to stay connected. Discover more tips to make family dinners meaningful on our website. https://linktr.ee/themakeitbetterfoundation

What’s your favorite way to make dinner work?

The Family Dinner Project

02/05/2025

January has come and gone, and February brings new opportunities to learn, celebrate, and uplift. This Black History Month, honor the rich contributions of artists, entrepreneurs, and visionaries by exploring these incredible Chicago-based events:

✨ Project a Black Planet: The Art and Culture of Panafrica at The Art Institute of Chicago
🛍 Black Makers Market at Navy Pier
🎨 Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
🍽 Chicago BLACK Restaurant Week

Get out, explore, and enjoy your community this February! Share with us how you're honoring Black History Month—whether you're attending an event, supporting businesses, or learning something new. Let us know what you're up to in the comments and check out more events on our website!

https://better.net/arts-events/28-best-things-to-do-in-chicago-and-the-suburbs-in-february-2025/

01/30/2025

Gratitude isn't just about saying "thank you"—it's about acknowledging the actions that spark goodness in our lives. According to Emiliana R. Simon-Thomas, Science Director at UC Berkeley's The Greater Good Science Center, recognizing the impact of someone's actions deepens our connections and enhances our well-being.

Since 2001, GGSC has been leading the charge to foster happiness, compassion, and altruism, offering powerful resources like the Bridging Differences program and The Science of Happiness Podcast. By empowering changemakers—educators, parents, healthcare professionals, and leaders—they're making empathy a movement. 💙

Want to learn how to master your own happiness? Check out how on our website! https://better.net/life/happiness-is-a-skill-these-science-backed-tools-can-help-you-master-it/

📸 Getty

01/29/2025

Blood is needed every two seconds in the U.S. — and only 3% of the population donates. But YOU can make a big difference by attending a blood drive in your town just like one of Chicagoland’s largest American Red Cross blood drives.

Hosted at Saints Joseph and Francis Xavier Parish in Wilmette, IL, the Kevin Joseph Smith Burke Blood Drive is celebrating its 10th year as a powerful community tradition that has already saved thousands of lives. The event started in 2016 collecting just 25 units of blood. This year they aim to collect 400 units of blood, saving up to 1,200 lives.

Feeling inspired? Find a blood drive in your part of the world and make a difference in your community. Learn more on our website!
https://better.net/philanthropy/game-day-for-good-super-bowl-sunday-blood-drive-aims-to-save-1200-lives/

American Red Cross of Illinois

01/28/2025

$130,000 gone in an instant – could it happen to you? The Carleo family lost that amount to a scam call—thankfully, they got it back. Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky.

Bank fraud is on the rise, from phishing scams to fake crypto investments targeting seniors. Here’s how to protect yourself:

👉 Before: Use strong, unique passwords & multi-factor authentication. Don’t trust unsolicited calls, emails, or texts—always contact your bank directly.
👉 During: Act fast! Report fraud to your bank, freeze accounts, and secure your devices.
👉 After: Report stolen funds to your bank, the FBI, and other authorities.

No one is immune, but you can lower your risk. Learn how to protect your finances on our website! https://better.net/life/bank-account-fraud-is-growing-how-to-protect-yourself/

Have a similar story to share? Submit a "You Said It" and help others stay vigilant!

Protect your bank accounts from fraud. Learn how to safeguard your money and avoid falling victim to scams.

01/27/2025

On November 7, 2024, the Surge Institute celebrated 10 years of advancing equity in education with ASCENSION at Wildman BT in Chicago! 🌟 The night featured a powerful Fireside Chat with Caroline A. Wanga, CEO of Essence Ventures, moderated by Surge alumna Michelle Y. Bess (CHI16), diving into leadership and diversity in education.

Founder and CEO Carmita Semaan shared, “Surge has become a movement—empowering leaders to bring hope, innovation, and justice to their communities.” Awards were presented to NewSchools Venture Fund and Kenny & Heather Mitchell for their incredible support.

The night was filled with inspiring stories, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of progress through dinner, music, and dancing. 🥂🎶

Check out the full recap at the link!
https://better.net/philanthropy/better-makers/empowering-leaders-of-color-surge-institute-commemorates-a-decade-of-advancing-equity-in-education/

01/24/2025

As high school seniors make their final college decisions, many may hesitate due to cost. Your donation to Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) can help remove that barrier and support students in pursuing their dreams.

Every dollar, big or small, invests in a student’s future. ACI provides scholarships, emergency financial aid, and professional development to help underserved students succeed in college and beyond. 100% of donations go directly to students. Learn how to make a difference on our website: https://s.mtrbio.com/xbzqbibuua

Know of a nonprofit making a difference for students? Submit a You Said It on its behalf and earn the organization $1,000! https://s.mtrbio.com/wyxyuhilju

01/23/2025

On November 9, 2024, Cradles to Crayons Chicago hosted its 9th Annual Gear Up for Winter Un-Gala, raising an incredible $500,000 to provide winter essentials for children in need across Chicago. These funds will help supply coats, hats, gloves, boots, and warm clothing to thousands of kids this season.

The organization aims to distribute 50,000 winter coats through its Gear Up for Winter initiative, presented by Bank of America. Highlights of the evening included inspiring remarks from Michelle Ramirez of Youth Crossroads, Inc. and Dr. Carol Collum of True Believers Community Connections, as well as heartfelt support from event co-chairs Terri and Mike Freeman, Anna Timmerman, and Braham Ketcham.

Together, we’re keeping Chicago’s kids warm this winter. Learn more on our website!
https://s.mtrbio.com/gqupbdvuil

01/22/2025

Youth sports can be life-changing for kids — building confidence, reducing anxiety, and improving physical health. But ensuring your child’s sport environment is safe is just as important as the game itself.

Free resources, like the SafeSport Ready app, help parents and guardians recognize and prevent abuse or misconduct in sports, so your child can thrive in a safe, supportive space.

Prep for the winter and spring sports seasons with more expert advice and learn how to download the new app from U.S. Center for SafeSport through the link below. Know a parent with kids participating in sports? Share this post with them today!

https://s.mtrbio.com/toxkhabvgs

Here's some expert advice — and a new app every parent should download — to help young athletes navigate the challenges and get the most out of their sports experience.

01/21/2025

January can be tough for parents with young kids—cold weather, cabin fever and endless energy that needs an outlet. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Check out these creative activities to keep your little ones entertained:

🌊 Shark Feeding Tour at Shedd Aquarium – Dive into an unforgettable underwater adventure!
🎼 Once Upon a Symphony: The Little Red Hen at Chicago Symphony Orchestra – A magical musical story your kids will love.

From indoor adventures to cozy crafts, let’s turn those frosty days into family fun. Learn more about these events and even more through the link below!
https://s.mtrbio.com/tfzqjwicad

Want to stay up to date on MIBF? Sign up for our newsletter while on our website.

01/19/2025

01/17/2025

This MLK Day weekend, celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with events that honor his dream of equality and justice for all.

January 19: Feel the power of unity at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration Concert with Music Institute of Chicago. A night of inspiring performances you won’t want to miss!

January 20: Gather the family for a day of reflection and creativity at the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Family Event at the Chicago History Museum.

✨ Learn more about these events on our website—link below! Let’s come together and keep the dream alive. How are you getting out into the community this weekend?

https://s.mtrbio.com/lhhrwmlpop

01/16/2025

Are you wondering if your child might be gifted? Giftedness goes beyond academics—it can shine through in music, visual art, spatial thinking, sports, chess, and more.

Research shows gifted children often share three traits:
1️⃣ They do things earlier than most other kids.
2️⃣ They do things their own way.
3️⃣ They show a “rage to master,” a passion for doing what they are good at.

But should you test your child for giftedness? According to Ellen Winner, Professor Emerita of Psychology at Boston College and Senior Research Associate at Project Zero, “Only if a test score is needed for admission to some special program.”

Head to the link for more expert advice ➡️ https://s.mtrbio.com/pbgfutjknl

Know a parent wondering if their child might be gifted? Share this post with them today!

Wondering if your child is gifted? Get expert advice on identifying giftedness, key signs to watch for, testing options, and how to support your child's unique needs.

01/15/2025

The ABC 7 Great Chicago Blood Drive starts TODAY!

Blood donations save lives—NICU babies, cancer patients, moms in crisis, and more depend on YOU. With only 3% of Americans donating, your gift is a critical lifeline.

Can’t donate blood? You can still make a difference with your dollars! Tiffany Circle members, Kimberly A. Falk, Peggy Hardek, Susan B. Noyes, Make It Better Foundation Founder and the Make It Better Foundation, Jill Schaaf, and Christine Tierney have issued a $100,000 matching gift challenge to ensure enough funds are raised for the event.

Let's make a difference and save lives. Learn more through the link below.
https://s.mtrbio.com/mvvjqomzzv

American Red Cross of Illinois

Sponsors include: The Illinois Tiffany Circle, Make It Better Foundation, Adtalem Global Education, Walgreens, First Secure Community Bank, State Farm, United

01/13/2025

🩸 Every drop counts. 🩸

Thank you to our friends at the Make It Better Foundation for highlighting Emily Alanis, a Red Cross team member, and her life-changing experience as a recipient of donated blood. Thanks to generous donors, Emily and her son are alive today.

Join us at the Great Chicago Blood Drive this Wednesday and Thursday and help save lives in our community. Your donation can make all the difference!

Read Emily’s story and find out how you can roll up your sleeve to be a hero: https://rdcrss.org/42cBDWD

01/10/2025

As of January 9, the Southern California fires continue devastating Los Angeles County. The Palisades and Eaton fires remain entirely uncontained and have already damaged or destroyed more than 9,000 structures, according to official estimates Thursday. Firefighters continue their uphill battle as Southern California braces for more dangerous weather conditions.

These photos captured January 7, 8 and 9 by Make It Better Foundation Director of Photography Mark Edward Harris document the devastating impact of the Palisades Fire on the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades and Malibu, as well as the incredible bravery of firefighters risking their lives to contain the fire.

Find ways to help through the link here: https://s.mtrbio.com/mlxdojvoef

For immediate help:
Visit redcross.org, use the free Red Cross Emergency App, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999.

Photo 1: Firefighters wait for more water before continuing to fight a house fire in Pacific Palisades during the Palisades Fire.
Photo 2: The Fontainebleau apartment complex in Pacific Palisades destroyed by the Palisades Fire.
Photo 3: Community United Methodist Church of Pacific Palisades on fire.
Photo 4 (Left): Community United Methodist Church of Pacific Palisades on fire.
Photo 5 (Right): Firefighters try to avoid being hit by flaming falling palm fronds in Pacific Palisades during the Palisades Fire.
Photo 6: A homeowner attempts to protect her property from the Palisades fire.
Photo 7 (Left): A destroyed Bank of America cash machine in Pacific Palisades during the Palisades Fire.
Photo 8 (Right): A display in front of the Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio destroyed by the Palisades Fire.
Photo 9: A statue of the Buddha in a Malibu Village home destroyed in the Palisades Fire.
Photo 10: Cars and homes destroyed by the Palisades Fire, in Malibu Village.
Photo 11 (Left): Abandoned cars in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles that were later destroyed by the Palisades Fire.
Photo 12 (Right): The Village School in Pacific Palisades, California was destroyed in the Palisades Fire.
Photo 13: The Palisades Fire from Hollywood on January 7.