December 02, 2025
Member: Gillian Darlow
Role: Board of Directors
Years as a Director: 5
You joined the Board of the Civic Federation in 2020. What drew you to our work and what do you think of our value in Chicago’s civic community?
I’ve long admired the Civic Federation’s work. I first became aware of Civic Federation long before I came to Polk Bros. Foundation. In fact, when I was with Civic Consulting Alliance, I often saw the Federation at the table on some of the same issues. I was always struck by the depth of Federation staff’s understanding of how government really works. The Federation brings rigor, clarity and a commitment to facts that help move conversations beyond politics and toward solutions that improve how systems serve people. That kind of informed, steady voice is essential in helping us all think bigger how government can work better for every Chicagoan.
What do you find most exciting about where the Federation is going? What is your greatest wish for the Civic Federation for the road ahead?
The kind of voice and analytical clarity the Civic Federation brings is more essential now than ever. We’re in a moment when resources from governments are tightening, public trust in institutions is decreasing, and people and institutions are stretched thin. In this environment, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s possible. What excites me about the Federation’s future is its ability to cut through that noise with credible analyses and practical solutions that help government work better for residents.
My greatest wish is that the Federation continues to use its influence and trusted voice to help shape a shared vision for systems that are not only efficient, but also fair and responsive to all Chicagoans.
What trends are you seeing in the philanthropic sector?
In philanthropy, there is growing urgency about the deepening divides that exist in our country – specifically, how the distribution of resources and opportunity is increasingly stratified, and how the ability to work together across perspectives has become ever more challenging and uncommon. Philanthropy is responding with a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and finding new voices and new approaches.
In Chicago, funders are in frequent conversation — and often coordinated action — to address inequities, support critical organizations and leaders, and strengthen communities. And many working in philanthropy are also augmenting their grantmaking through investments in research, convening, and collective voice.
At Polk Bros. Foundation, we’re part of this shift. It’s an exciting evolution, and one that I think is helping philanthropy be more impactful. We understand we are more effective when we work together and when we build trust with the communities we serve.
Tell us about Polk Bros. Foundation's new goals.
Polk Bros. Foundation recently announced a shift in in our grantmaking approach to focus on three goals for Chicago: Closing the Life Expectancy Gap to address the root causes of stark disparities in health equity and personal and community safety across different neighborhoods in Chicago; Building Community Wealth Across Generations to create pathways out of poverty and toward economic opportunity for residents of Chicago’s historically disinvested communities through more equitable housing, education, and income; and Fostering a Participatory, Multiracial Democracy to ensure that the varied voices of our city are heard and can influence the decisions that affect their lives.
What impact are you trying to make and what types of challenges are you most often working to address?
These new goals were the result of deep examination to understand how – despite the committed and effective work of so many – some Chicagoans continue to experience unequal access to the resources and opportunities they deserve. And, further, to identify how our grantmaking could be better leveraged to help change these dynamics.
In practice, that means investing in work that addresses the conditions that shape why some neighborhoods face shorter life expectancy, why families struggle to access stable housing or good-paying jobs, and why many residents feel their voices aren’t heard when decisions are made about their lives and communities. Our goal is to help all Chicagoans have a fair shot at prosperity, influence, and a long, healthy life.
What's your favorite Chicago hidden gem?
I love wandering through different Chicago neighborhoods and stumbling upon independent shops, vibrant murals and hole-in-the-wall diners. One spot I particularly enjoy is the Montrose Beach Bird Sanctuary – a quiet place where you can watch wildlife and find a moment of calm at the edge of the city.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I’m a big fan of all things creative in Chicago. I especially enjoy seeing live theater, but I also love exploring museum exhibits and local arts events. Our city is full of inspiration.
Gillian Darlow is CEO of Polk Bros. Foundation, a private independent foundation which focuses its work at the intersection of Chicago's most pressing issues to address the complex roots and devastating effects of poverty, challenge inequity, and ensure that all Chicagoans have the opportunity to reach their full potential. Learn more at polkbrosfdn.org.