Grants are a fundamental part of the CBF’s comprehensive access to justice program. The CBF now awards over $2.5 million in grants each year to more than 35 pro bono and legal aid organizations in the Chicago area and related initiatives. These grants are made possible thanks to the generous support of thousands of lawyers and other legal professionals, more than 150 law firms and corporations and many other dedicated partners from throughout the Chicago area. A significant portion, or $1.12 million, of the CBF’s grants in FY 10 (June 1, 2009 – May 31, 2010) were made possible by the 4th Annual CBF Investing in Justice Campaign.

The CBF’s grants provide critical and consistent general operating support for pro bono and legal aid organizations in our community and support a number of innovative special projects and systemic initiatives. The grants ensure access to justice for tens of thousands of low-income and disadvantaged Chicago area residents in most critical need of the protections of our civil legal system and strengthen our community’s pro bono and legal aid system for the longer term.

For more information about the CBF’s grants, please contact Dina Merrell at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 312/554-1206.