In 2025, Evanston nonprofits faced a dual crisis. On one hand, organizations saw sudden and significant funding cuts from federal, state, and local sources. On the other, many were serving communities under increasing threat — including our undocumented neighbors facing fear, misinformation, and uncertainty about their safety and future.

In response, ECF launched Resilience Grants to provide flexible, rapid-response funding that allowed nonprofits not just to survive, but to adapt in a time of uncertainty. Some organizations used these dollars to sustain core services like housing support, legal aid, and mental health care. Others pivoted quickly to offer “Know Your Rights” workshops and emergency resources for families navigating possible deportation.

These grants empowered local leaders to respond to the moment — to protect their communities, offer stability, and ensure no one was left behind.

In total, we distributed $300,000 in Resilience Grants this year — all part of our broader effort to meet the moment. ECF is on track to distribute an anticipated $3.4 million in grantmaking across Evanston in 2025, thanks to the generous support of donors like you.