McCormick's will founded a charitable trust to promote his beliefs regarding the First Amendment, citizenship, community service, education and journalism.
[3] Hiller succeeded David L. Grange, a retired United States Army major general, who was the foundation’s president from 2005–2009.
[2] McCormick left his grandfather Joseph Medill's estate, that he called Cantigny, as a public park.
[6] The foundation makes grants for Chicago healthcare, cultural, education and human service organizations.
Examples include Chicago Lighthouse for the blind or visually impaired, Children's Memorial Hospital, and Off The Street Club.