Our Story

The Full Story

The Giving Love Network began in 2015 with a heartfelt mission sparked by 6-year-old Caroline Dickinson. Walking through downtown Chicago with her family, Caroline noticed people experiencing homelessness living under viaducts, along Lower Wacker Drive, and on cold city streets. What struck her most wasn’t just the visible need—but the human dignity being overlooked.

Instead of turning away, Caroline wanted to help.

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That same year, she launched the Giving Love Project, collecting food, socks, toiletries, and coloring books to distribute to those in need. With a child’s sincerity and a heart full of compassion, she personally handed out care packages—offering not just basic necessities, but kindness and connection.

What began as a grassroots act of love grew steadily, fueled by community support and Caroline’s unwavering passion.

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Today, at 16, Caroline has transformed her early efforts into the Giving Love Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to support the nonprofits already doing critical work on the front lines. Rather than trying to do everything alone, Giving Love Network now focuses on amplifying impact—by attracting donations, securing product contributions, and awarding financial grants to vetted organizations addressing homelessness and food insecurity in the Chicago area.

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The mission has expanded, but the heart remains the same.

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With plans to grow into other metropolitan areas in need, Caroline continues to lead with a simple, powerful belief:

Everyone deserves to feel loved and have hope for a brighter future.