April 09, 2025
CHRISTA HAMILTON
MEMBER, CIVIC FEDERATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Number of years as a member: 2
You are a more recent board member of the Civic Federation, joining us in 2022. What drew you to our work and what do you think of the Civic Federation’s value in Chicago’s civic community?
As a nonprofit leader committed to equity, access, and sustainable change, I was drawn to the Civic Federation because of its legacy of data-driven, objective research and its role as a trusted convener of civic and government leaders. The Federation’s work adds immense value to my own, as it gives me direct access to vital fiscal insights and policy analysis that inform how nonprofit organizations can navigate and respond to Chicago’s ever-evolving economic and political landscape. It’s especially impactful to be in community with both government and corporate leaders—learning from their perspectives while also ensuring that the voice of the communities we serve is part of those important conversations. The Federation provides a rare space where strategic dialogue can happen across sectors, rooted in facts and focused on impact.
What do you find most exciting about where the Federation is going, particularly in light of our new President and Strategic Plan? What is your greatest wish for the Civic Federation for the road ahead?
I am most energized by the Civic Federation’s renewed commitment to “Amplify Our Voices.” That focus signals a powerful shift—one where more people, in more places, can access and understand the complex fiscal challenges facing our region. When we amplify, we also clarify—and that’s where real accountability begins. I’m proud to be part of an organization that is embracing new methods of communication, community engagement, and collaboration. My greatest wish for the Civic Federation is that it continues to be a fearless thought leader that drives systems-level change—while making its data and insights more accessible to everyday residents, community-based organizations, and young people who are shaping the future of our city.
As President and CEO at UCAN, you lead an organization that is over 150 years old and also serve on the Board of the Civic Federation, which is 130 years old. What do you see as strengths and lessons learned from working at and volunteering for two nonprofit organizations with long histories in Chicago?
Leading and serving in organizations with such long-standing legacies has taught me the value of rootedness—how deep institutional memory can serve as a powerful platform for innovation. Both UCAN and the Civic Federation were born out of a desire to respond to crises and systemic injustices, and they’ve both evolved over time to meet the changing needs of our region. Their longevity is a testament to strong governance, mission clarity, and a willingness to adapt. I see it as my responsibility to honor those histories while helping to chart bold new paths forward. The key lesson I’ve learned is that stability and innovation are not mutually exclusive; in fact, a strong foundation is what allows you to take transformative risks. I aim to bring a forward-thinking, equity-driven perspective to the work, while holding space for the wisdom of those who came before me.
As a prominent and dedicated civic and community leader, what inspires you about Chicago’s resilient communities and what are some of their greatest needs today?
I am a proud product of the South Side of Chicago—born in Englewood and raising my family in Chatham—so I’ve seen firsthand the ingenuity, strength, and generosity that lives within our communities. What inspires me most is how people in under-resourced neighborhoods continue to build hope and opportunity despite systemic barriers. There is a deep sense of pride and possibility in Chicago’s neighborhoods. But there is still urgent work to do. Communities need greater investment in mental health resources, workforce development, safe spaces for youth and families, and access to quality healthcare. These are not just programs—they are the building blocks of thriving, self-sufficient communities. We must continue to invest in systems that uplift people, not just manage crises.
As a first-generation college graduate, what advice do you have for first-generation students?
Enrolling in college is a major accomplishment, but it’s only the beginning. First-gen students need to be intentional about building an ecosystem of support that goes beyond the classroom. I encourage students to surround themselves with mentors, sponsors, and trusted advisors who can help navigate academic challenges, financial decisions, and personal growth. Think of your village as your strategy team—people who believe in you, challenge you, and help you dream bigger. And don’t be afraid to ask for help—there is strength in recognizing what you don’t know and seeking guidance. You are not in this alone, and you belong in every room you enter.
What impact are you trying to make and what types of challenges are you most often working to address?
My goal is to build strong, resilient communities where youth and families can thrive—not just survive. At UCAN and in my broader civic work, I focus on addressing intergenerational trauma, systemic inequities, and cycles of poverty. That means creating access to mental health care, violence prevention, housing stability, and career pathways. The challenges I face often involve navigating complex systems that weren’t designed with marginalized communities in mind. I work to disrupt those systems from the inside out—through advocacy, service, and policy influence—so that equity isn’t a goal; it’s a given.
What's your favorite Chicago hidden gem?
Pequod’s Pizza is a must—those caramelized crusts are unforgettable. But I also love South Shore Beach. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and full of history. It’s one of those rare places in the city where you can recharge and reflect, with Lake Michigan as your backdrop.
What do you most enjoy doing in your free time?
I find deep joy and grounding in my faith community at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. Worship is where I reset. And when I want to laugh and let go, nothing beats a great comedy show—laughter really is the best medicine.
Christa A. Hamilton serves as president and CEO of UCAN, a 156-year-old youth services organization that annually provides a continuum of services to and impacts thousands of children, youth and families around Chicago. UCAN’s promise is to advocate for and provide opportunities that change lives through impactful programs, consistent presence and unrivaled diversity and inclusion.
Hamilton, who was elected by the UCAN Governing Board on September 13, 2021, is the first African American and first woman to lead UCAN, which was founded as a Civil War orphanage. Previously, since 2014, she had served as CEO for Centers for New Horizons on Chicago’s South Side.
A native Chicagoan born in Englewood, Hamilton has devoted her career to improving the lives of others in resilient communities, and centering equity in all aspects. A community and civic leader, she sits on the boards for Instituto del Progreso Latino, ScaleLIT, South Side Healthy Communities Organization, Conscious Community Network, Social Current and Nourishing Hope.
A Fellow of Leadership Greater Chicago and member of the Economic Club of Chicago and Civic Federation, she sits on the board of directors of Social Current, is a member of the Social Services Advisory Council with the Illinois Department of Human Services and is a member of the University of Chicago Community Medicine Advisory Council. Hamilton is also a member of the Policy Committee for Cook County Clerk-Elect Monica Gordon. A 1999 graduate of Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Hamilton is a first-generation college graduate who earned an MBA from National Louis University and a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Florida A&M University.