Museum’s Programming and Civic Space to Honor of Sheldon “Shelly” Baskin
CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The National Public Housing Museum, the first cultural institution dedicated to interpreting the American experience of public housing, announced a $1 million gift from the Baskin Family Foundation. In honor of the gift, the museum will rename its prominent public space as the Shelly Baskin Living Room.
Since opening in 2025, the Living Room has been the Museum’s gathering space, fulfilling its mission as a cultural and civic anchor shaping the future of housing, hosting free programs and performances, and community gatherings.
It is being named in honor of the late Sheldon “Shelly” Baskin, a Chicago affordable housing developer, civic leader, and philanthropist. Guided by his philosophy of “doing well by doing good,” he pioneered an approach to affordable housing that united nonprofits, faith communities, government, and business. Through these partnerships, he helped create and preserve thousands of homes for seniors and working families across Chicago and beyond, demonstrating that affordable housing could strengthen communities and enrich neighborhoods.
“Shelly was a devoted family man, loyal friend, world traveler, and lifelong White Sox fan. He brought the same optimism, curiosity, and generosity to his personal life that defined his professional legacy,” said Judy Wise, co-founder of the Baskin Family Foundation, which supports forward thinking organizations with a focus on education and social justice.
“Shelly was a visionary, entrepreneur, and civic leader whose legacy endures in the communities he helped build, the lives he touched, and the belief that doing good is among life’s greatest achievements. To have this space at the National Public Housing Museum named in Shelly’s honor is a fitting tribute to his life and work, and we are honored by this gift,” said National Public Housing Museum Board Chair Sunny Fischer.
The space will be dedicated during an invitation-only event later this fall.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL PUBLIC HOUSING MUSEUM
Founded by public housing residents, the National Public Housing Museum is the first cultural institution dedicated to interpreting the American experience in public housing. Filled with history, memories, music, and art, the Museum is a welcoming community gathering place that honors the stories and experiences of public housing residents. Through partnerships and programs, the Museum serves as a civic incubator that inspires visitors to take informed action to advance housing justice.
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SOURCE National Public Housing Museum
