Wintrust in the Community
In January, we shared news about our acquisition of 66 units of HIV-specific housing in North Lawndale, ensuring individuals and families remained stably housed through the transition of the property titles. This would not have been possible, though, without the financial guidance and support of our friends at Wintrust.
“Chicago House’s roof will extend further now thanks to the expertise and flexibility of the Wintrust team!” shared Michael Herman, Chief Executive Officer. “By helping us sort through the finalization of this deal in a timely manner, residents were not impacted and will now thrive through our supportive service model.”
Wintrust’s approach is grounded in a strong commitment to local engagement and personalized service, providing an alternative to larger banks. Since its founding, Wintrust has prioritized being a community bank, offering meaningful connections and understanding the unique needs of the neighborhoods it serves. Over the past 30 years, Wintrust has expanded to serve customers in all 50 states and Canada, but it remains deeply rooted in its community-focused values. With a workforce of 5,900 employees, Wintrust is actively involved in local chambers of commerce, schools, city halls, nonprofits, and more, ensuring a hands-on approach to building relationships and making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
Chicago House saw this philosophy first-hand as Wintrust helped us navigate the complex financial elements of the three North Lawndale buildings. The team was instrumental in establishing the financial infrastructure for the properties to comply with all requirements of the government lending partners prior to Chicago House securing the leases for the buildings, each having their own approval process.
Wintrust has made significant investments over the years, committing over $50 million to the Community Reinvestment Act and investing more than $650 million in areas such as affordable housing, economic development, and revitalization.
“True connection isn’t found in seeking opportunity, but in genuinely understanding what lights someone’s soul. When we approach relationships with authenticity, unfiltered truth and transparency, we create a space where trust naturally grows,” said Tracy Kelly, Vice President for Beverly Bank & Trust’s (A Wintrust Community Bank) Community Lending Division. “The most meaningful guidance we can offer others comes not from our words of advice, but from the example of our willingness to listen and understand their passion. It’s in these moments of genuine exchange that relationships go from mere interactions into journeys of mutual growth.”
As a further demonstration of community building, Wintrust is the Presenting Sponsor at this year’s Spring Brunch & Fashion Show on May 4th. With Chicago House celebrating 40 years of service, we are excited to honor this milestone together and recognize the powerful impact of our shared commitments. Plus, keep an eye out for our billboard ad at I-90/94 and North Avenue through the month of April!
The Wintrust team believes in the importance of a true community bank where tellers know customers by name, bankers support local businesses, and the bank invests in the neighborhoods it serves. Through our partnership, we are reinforcing this foundation to continue making a positive difference in communities throughout Chicago.
Special thanks to Justin Santora for helping us design this billboard ad!