For over 60 years, the Volunteer Center and First Call for Help have linked people with volunteer opportunities and community resources throughout Metropolitan Chicago. In July 2002, Community Resource Network (CRN) spun off as an independent nonprofit organization from the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago.

Programs formerly in United Way 's Corporate and Community Programs Division are now a part of the new organization which includes: the Directory of Health and Human Services, Celebration of Caring, Chicagovolunteer.net and the Board Placement Program.

Kathleen Gillig, who developed and managed these programs at United Way , now leads Community Resource Network as its president. “We will enhance and expand current programs while developing additional training and consultation services to companies, agencies, local government and the community-at-large,” said Gillig.

In January 2004, CRN moved into its own space in the West Loop where we continue to provide quality linkages for individuals, companies and agencies seeking community resources and ways to get involved in their community.