Chicago – September 15, 2026 -- The National Public Housing Museum has secured a $1 million gift from the Baskin Family Foundation, prompting the renaming of its central civic space to the Shelly Baskin Living Room.
Baskin Family Foundation commits $1 million to Chicago museum
The National Public Housing Museum, described as the first U.S. cultural institution dedicated to interpreting the American experience of public housing, confirmed the gift on Sept. 9, 2026. The funds will support the Living Room, the museum's gathering space that has hosted free programs, performances, and community events since opening in 2025.
Space honors late Chicago affordable housing developer Sheldon Baskin
The renamed Shelly Baskin Living Room memorializes Sheldon "Shelly" Baskin, a Chicago affordable housing developer, civic leader, and philanthropist who died before the announcement. Baskin built partnerships across nonprofits, faith communities, government, and business to create and preserve thousands of affordable homes for seniors and working families in Chicago and beyond.
Judy Wise, co-founder of the Baskin Family Foundation, said Baskin brought "optimism, curiosity, and generosity" to both his personal life and his professional work in affordable housing development. The foundation focuses its philanthropy on education and social justice initiatives.
Museum board chair calls tribute fitting for civic leader's legacy
National Public Housing Museum Board Chair Sunny Fischer said the naming reflects Baskin's belief that "doing good is among life's greatest achievements," citing his lasting impact on the communities he helped build.
The museum plans to formally dedicate the Shelly Baskin Living Room during an invitation-only event later this fall.