Charity and fundraising are not specific or isolated events or activities in the Chicago Region; they are integral to all of our events. At the start of each year, a charity for the year is selected from not-for-profit organizations nominated by members. Each nominating member and their charity has an opportunity to present to the Board details of their organization, the impact that a relationship with the Region will provide, and how they will work with the Region to ensure the success of the fund raising efforts. After each organization has had an opportunity to present, the Board selects the charity that it feels is the best fit for the Region.
Factors that are considered for selection are:
- Is the nominee’s focus on serving those in the Chicago Region area, and is the nominee a “local” organization?
- Does the nominee’s mission emphasize children or youth?
- Will our contribution be a “meaningful amount” to the charity? There are many excellent charities whose noble work is undeniable, but the Club prefers that its contributions make a difference to the organization. Another consideration is whether the charity can absorb a significant contribution.
- Does the organization have the correct tax status, legal registration, documentation, etc.?
- Is the nominating member willing to represent the charity at club events?
- The charity should also make a commitment to attending multiple club events to help raise awareness within the club membership and the help with the fundraising. RADE and TRAC are particularly good events to attend as the touring sessions generally raise significant amounts of money.
A submission should include all the relevant tax and legal documentation as well as the organization’s overall mission, outcomes, and the impacts of the outcomes. A detained statement as to what impact our contribution will make to the charity and/or it’s programs and how those funds will be spent are also key to a successful submission.
The Charity selected for 2024 is CASA of McHenry County.
What is CASA of McHenry County?
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. It is a vital organization that plays a critical role in advocating for the welfare and well-being of children in McHenry County’s foster care system.
Our Mission
At CASA, our mission is to protect and support children who have been abused or neglected by providing them with trained, commited volunteers who advocate for their best interest. We believe that every child deserves a safe, loving, forever home, and we work tirelessly to make that vision a reality!
How CASA Works
CASA staff recruit, train and support adult volunteers who are appointed by a McHenry County judge to represent the best interests of children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.
These dedicated individuals undergo extensive training to become advocates for these vulnerable children. They visit the children regularly, speak with their caregivers, teachers, and healthcare providers, and gather important information to help judges make informed decisions about the children’s futures. A CASA volunteer stays with the child as long as their case is open, often being the only constant adult in the child’s life.
The Impact of CASA
CASA volunteers make a profound impact on the lives of the children they serve. They provide a consistent and caring presence in the child’s life, ensuring that their needs are met and their voices are heard. Studies have shown that children with CASA advocates are more likely to find safe, permanent homes, perform better in school, and have improved mental and physical health.
Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of our most vulnerable children. For more information: www.casamchenrycounty.org.
To make a donation directly to CASA of McHenry County, visit their website: https://www.casamchenrycounty.org/support.
Previous year’s charities
