Bridge Communities CEO Amy Van Polen Named Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain’s

GLEN ELLYN, IL – Bridge Communities is excited to announce that Chief Executive Officer Amy Van Polen has been named one of Crain's Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Philanthropy 2025. This prestigious recognition celebrates nonprofit leaders making significant impact across the Chicago region and highlights Van Polen's exceptional leadership in addressing homelessness and building stronger communities.

The award recognizes local nonprofit leaders who play critical roles in strengthening civic life, building cross-sector partnerships, securing vital resources and delivering services that improve lives. Van Polen joins a group of honorees whose work spans education, housing, public health, the arts and more, collectively shaping a more resilient Chicago.

Van Polen assumed her role as Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Communities in June 2023. Since taking the helm, she has focused on strengthening partnerships, expanding services, and advancing the organization's strategic vision to ensure all families have access to stable housing and the support they need to thrive.

Bridge Communities' mission is to transition families facing homelessness to self-sufficiency by working with partners to provide mentoring, housing, and supportive services.

Through comprehensive programming that includes case management, financial literacy training, employment support, and children's services, Bridge helps families build the foundation for long-term stability and success.

The Crain's Chicago Business Notable Leaders in Philanthropy awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in the nonprofit sector. Recipients are selected based on their professional achievements, community contributions, and ability to drive meaningful change in their areas of focus.

Crain’s Chicago Business’s full Notable Leaders in Philanthropy list can be found here: https://www.chicagobusiness.com/awards/notable-leaders-philanthropy-2025

Crain's Chicago Business is the leading source of business news and information for the Chicago metropolitan area. The publication's Notable awards program recognizes outstanding professionals and leaders who are making significant contributions to their industries and communities.

Bridge Communities is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide housing, mentoring and supportive services to families facing homelessness in DuPage County. Bridge Communities’ vision is a community where all families have safe, sustainable and affordable housing and life-long self-sufficiency. For more information, please visit www.bridgecommunities.org.