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NGO People

These are people in the non-profit sector that lead efforts to maintain and grow sustainable local communities:

Donna Ducharme, Chief Executive Officer Delta Institute

A co-founder of the Delta Institute, Donna has long been committed to designing programs to bring economic development opportunities to underserved communities. She has developed and managed brownfield site redevelopment strategies, secured pre-development, development and technical assistance funds, facilitated the creation of numerous community, redevelopment, sustainable development and strategic plans, and designed and managed collaborative public policy forums.

Suzanne Keers, Co-Founder & Executive Director Local First Chicago

Local First Chicago is a not-for-profit organization formed to educate members of the public, business leaders and local governments regarding the economic and social benefits provided by locally owned and independent businesses in Chicago.  Suzanne is also the owner of Main Street Innovations, a consulting company devoted to helping experienced business owners grow and optimize their companies.  Suzanne has 25 years of experience in consulting and management with deep knowledge of quality management, process improvement and general management.

The short list to living local
  • Join a local credit union
  • Participate in your school board, village board or PTA
  • Invest in local businesses for the long term
  • Buy local every day, every week
  • Try to work locally by living as close to work as possible
  • Retire locally by volunteering your time and expertise