Chicago Commons was founded in 1894 as a Settlement House on the Near West Side of Chicago, a neighborhood then populated by recent immigrants who were vulnerable to the largely un-regulated growth of industrial, urban America. 

Over the past 112 years, the face of our society has changed dramatically, but our mission remains the same – to partner with individuals, families and communities to overcome poverty, discrimination and isolation.

Chicago Commons focuses its efforts on improving well-being at the most vulnerable stages of life – primarily serving children, youth, and the elderly.

We impact the lives of nearly 10,000 people each year, serving families that live in neighborhoods impacted by high rates of poverty with limited educational and economic resources.  The majority of our service is targeted to three Chicago neighborhoods – West Humboldt Park, Pilsen and New City (Back of the Yards).