Collaborative Impact: The Think Tank that is the Selection Advisory Council of GreenLight Fund Chicago

By Elle Davis, MSW, GreenLight Fund Chicago Selection Advisory Member

When Hermilo (Milo) Hinojosa, the Founding Executive Director for GreenLight Fund Chicago, reached out about serving as a Selection Advisory Council (SAC) member, I wasn’t entirely sure what I was signing up for. I trusted Milo as a former colleague, and that’s what mattered most. He mentioned he was calling on other trusted individuals I know well, so I figured the worst outcome would be spending a few hours connecting with people I like and meeting new folks I hoped I’d like. I’m happy to report that both happened, and we’ve also learned about dynamic programming happening across the country to select some of those entities to expand their efforts to Chicago.

Serving as a SAC member since its inception has been a journey filled with purpose. With more than two decades in the nonprofit sector supporting organizations dedicated to empowering youth, strengthening families, and fostering resilient communities, I found GreenLight Fund’s approach compelling. Their method of thoughtfully investing in innovative, community-informed nonprofit solutions made it clear this was an opportunity to contribute my voice and perspective.

SAC members are learning about organizations and programs creating meaningful impact in other cities across the U.S. For example, learning about Compass Working Capital was fascinating as they help low-income families build their assets as a pathway out of poverty through their client-centered savings and financial coaching programs. Aside from that, this organization provides training to other practitioners and focuses on policy change to eradicate barriers for low-income families. If it weren’t for my involvement in the SAC, I and other committee members wouldn’t know about this and other organizations we learned about.

The collaborative and inclusive nature of our work as SAC members is refreshing, mimicking a thoughtful think tank. GreenLight Fund Chicago intentionally centers stakeholder voices, ensuring those impacted by social challenges, investors, and service providers actively participate in identifying innovative solutions. These voices are prioritized when determining which organizations to invite to the Chicago community. This inclusive process ensures our investments genuinely respond to community needs. Additionally, the SAC carefully considers how invited organizations complement existing boots-on-the-ground work.

Our influence extends beyond selecting new organizations. Our voices shape strategic direction, help define priority focus areas, and ensure alignment with community values. This responsibility significantly impacts the effectiveness of the nonprofits we champion. Knowing our thoughtful deliberations can lead to meaningful, impactful programming in Chicago energizes me and gives me hope for the future of lasting change.

The SAC membership comprises individuals with diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds—nonprofit leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, attorneys, investors, public service employees, and community advocates. This diversity provides a richer, more comprehensive understanding of Chicago’s unique challenges and opportunities. Multiple perspectives inform our collective decisions, leading to more effective, equitable, and sustainable outcomes.

As GreenLight Fund Chicago grows, there may be opportunities for additional SAC members. This role is ideal if you’re passionate about creating tangible change and believe in collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. This is a space where your voice and experiences truly matter. Joining the SAC offers an incredible opportunity to contribute and grow among dedicated individuals committed to making Chicago better for all residents. GreenLight Fund focuses on breaking down barriers and shifting outcomes related to our toughest challenges.

Looking ahead to the upcoming selection cycle, I’m excited to explore new areas of innovation and strengthen our commitment to sustainable impact across Chicago communities. Each cycle presents fresh opportunities to learn, collaborate, and discover transformative organizations ready to make a difference.