When I moved to Chicago after college, I was a small-town 21-year-old with big dreams but a nervous heart. The size and noise of the city were overwhelming, and the maze of the L left me constantly afraid of getting lost (especially in high heels—which, yes, happened). Everything felt unfamiliar, and I wasn’t sure how I would ever find my way.

And then, I found the Chicago Reader.

Through the Reader, I discovered how this city works. I found bands to see, theater to experience, and offbeat performance art to inspire me. I devoured Dan Savage’s advice, scoured listings for apartments and roommates, and uncovered the hidden gems of Chicago’s neighborhoods. Slowly but surely, the Reader introduced me to the grit and beauty of this city—and the humans who make it what it is. It connected me with the people who are still my people.

More than a guide, the Reader helped me fall into myself—as a Chicagoan and as a person. It gave me the tools to build a life here.

Now, the Reader needs your help to continue doing what it’s done for so many of us. As an independent, nonprofit newsroom, the Reader relies on the generosity of people like you to stay vibrant and free for all. Whether you’re new to Chicago, a lifelong resident, or somewhere in between, your support ensures that the stories, listings, and voices that connect us remain accessible.

Will you join me in keeping the Chicago Reader alive for the next generation of dreamers, explorers, and nervous 21-year-olds?

We need your help today

After more than 50 years of serving Chicago, the Reader faces imminent closure. 

Can you imagine Chicago without the Chicago Reader? We can’t either. But a perfect storm of sudden economic downturns has put us in a precarious position, without much time to spare.

We’re not giving up though. We have a clear path forward, but only if we can raise enough from enough supporters to make it through this crisis. 

If you value the Reader, and want to see it survive, please chip in now with a tax-deductible donation. 

Questions about giving? Email development@chicagoreader.com or at:

Reader Institute for Community Journalism, 2930 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 102 Chicago, IL 60616

The Reader Institute for Community Journalism is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 84-3670420). Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.