A 2015 United Way of Illinois survey taken of providers indicated that more than one-third of over 400 nonprofit organizations across the state have cut back on services to their communities due to the current budget crisis in Springfield. In response to this impact on nonprofit organizations in Illinois, The Chicago Community Trust will administer a $250,000 Nonprofit Impact Awareness Fund, supported by the Community Trust and other Illinois foundation partners like the Dunham Fund. The Impact Awareness Fund is intended to coordinate civic engagement activities, communication strategies, and public awareness of the contribution of nonprofits to the Illinois economy and to create an expedited review process for those nonprofits seeking grant funding. The Awareness Fund Advisors will be staff from contributing donors who will collectively make funding decisions. A Coordination Committee, comprised of advocacy and communication experts and professionals, will develop the overarching education campaign and efforts, identify the project manager, and present the Fund Advisors with funding recommendations. The fund will provide grants to 501(c)(3) organizations only within the state of Illinois.