Strong local journalism depends on the people who do the work. Behind the stories, journalists navigate demanding deadlines, public scrutiny, online harassment, industry instability, and the emotional weight of reporting on difficult topics, all while helping communities stay informed.
“Hearing firsthand from grantees about the challenges facing the field, we recognized an opportunity to invest in solutions that support and sustain journalists who make this vital work possible,” shared Nicholas Burt, Senior Program Officer for Investigative Journalism at the Driehaus Foundation. “The message was simple: when they are at their best, they do their best work for the communities they serve.”
In response, the Driehaus Foundation has committed $250,000 to date toward efforts to make Chicago a national model for journalist mental health. The grants support:
- Training Chicago-based clinical therapists to work with journalists as a professional specialization through a partnership with the Global Center for Journalism and Trauma and Journalist Trauma Support Network.
- Establishing a first-of-its-kind Chicago Journalism Mental Health Fund, located at the International Women’s Media Foundation to eliminate financial barriers to accessing care.
- Providing a range of no-cost trainings, workshops, and peer support groups through the Global Center for Journalism and Trauma.
The Foundation recently partnered with the Field Foundation to welcome journalists, newsroom leaders, and community partners to Strong Minds, Strong Stories at Impact House. The event was designed to create space for journalists to connect around shared experiences and introduce the new mental health initiatives provided by the Global Center for Journalism and Trauma, and the International Women’s Media Foundation. Wellness activities included massage therapy, stress-relief fitness sessions, and opportunities for attendees to speak with a licensed therapist.
Journalists and newsroom leaders interested in available resources are encouraged to connect with the Global Center for Journalism and Trauma and the International Women's Media Foundation to learn more about counseling support, training opportunities, and other well-being programs now available to Chicago journalists.
We also welcome those interested in strengthening the future of local journalism to learn more about these partner organizations and consider supporting their efforts to advance journalist well-being and resilience.
