Chicago nonprofit Cara Collective receives $8M boost from philanthropist Mackenzie Scott

CHICAGO - Chicago-based nonprofit Cara Collective was awarded an $8 million grant by philanthropist Mackenzie Scott, who has already made such a huge impact here in the city with her generous donations. 

Cara Collective finds jobs for the unemployed and underemployed and aims to diversify the corporate workforce. 

The founder launched the organization 32 years ago, traveling to shelters with a truck full of old suits. 

"After he had retired from his job, he went shelter to shelter literally, starting with the trunk of his car and helping people literally not only look the part but prepare the part.  He knew he had friends in corporations and companies that could use additional talent, and he knew that the people he was talking to had incredible talent and skills to give," said President and CEO of Cara Collective, Kathleen St. Louis Caliento. 

With the new funding, they hope to further expand their assistance nationwide.