The Commercial Club of Chicago works to shape Chicago’s future to make our region a better place for everyone to live, work, and do business.
Derek R. B. Douglas Takes the Helm of the Civic Committee and Commercial Club of Chicago
Derek brings decades of valuable experience in academia, law, policy development, and he has worked at the highest levels of federal and state government. Read more here.
The Civic Committee works with business leaders, public officials, and other civic and community organizations on game-changing initiatives to promote the social and economic well-being of our region.
“For 142 years, the Commercial Club has been the voice and vision of the business and professional communities in Chicago. It has recommended and then collaborated with the political leadership of the City and State to advance those projects that helped make Chicago a great city. Don Perkins advanced this concept when he developed the Civic Committee as an action arm of the Commercial Club in 1983.”
Lester Crown Chairman Emeritus, Henry Crown and Company
Member Since 1972
“One of the many strengths of Chicago is its diverse and engaged business community. The Commercial Club is an extraordinary venue for us to gain insight in order to help strengthen the fabric of our city.”
Valerie Jarrett President, Barack Obama Foundation | Senior Distinguished Fellow at the University of Chicago Law School
Member Since 1998
“The Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago provides the experience, perspective and connections that have made our philanthropic efforts and community partnerships at Peoples Gas so successful. It is an absolutely critical resource for leaders of area companies who want to make a real difference in the communities they serve.”
Charles Matthews President and Chief Executive Officer, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas
Member Since 2016
“The Commercial Club brings together hardworking leaders across Chicago with a shared commitment to use their power for good. Together, members connect, collaborate and influence positive change that fuels the bright future of our city.”