News & Projects
Our work Is expansive, and so are the stories that shape the Chicago region’s civic ecosystem.
This space is designed to inform, inspire, and celebrate the collective efforts to create a more vibrant, equitable, and prosperous Chicago region for all.
From partner spotlights and project updates to deep dives on key initiatives, we share the moments, milestones, and ideas that reflect our collaborative approach.
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Dialing up social services via 211
The Chicago region is the last major metropolitan area that does not have 211, an easy-to-remember resource for residents to access human and social services 24/7 by phone, text, and website. Without a 211 line, residents must navigate over a dozen call lines for different services, operated by multiple agencies. Implementing a 211 system has long been a goal for City and County officials, community- based organizations, and the philanthropic community. The COVID-19 Recovery Task Force also identified 211 implementation as a high priority and both the City and County allocated ARPA funding to establish a 211 system.
“Civic Consulting Alliance was instrumental in getting the Cut the Tape initiative off the ground quickly. Their in-depth research on peer cities and insightful stakeholder engagement helped us identify ways to streamline the City’s real estate development process. This not only saved us valuable time but also ensured we targeted the highest-impact solutions that will lead to more affordable housing and vibrant commercial corridors throughout Chicago.”
Kenya Merritt, Deputy Mayor of Business and Neighborhood Development, City of Chicago