As an employee benefit in 2016, each 1871 staff member was allocated a cash amount to donate to a charity or cause they hold dear; organizations whose initiatives ranged from education to compassion, leadership to social justice. In the spirit of #GivingTuesday this year, we wanted to share the stories and experiences that led to these donations from 1871 on behalf of each team member -- all of which are a reflection of the diverse and deeply held values throughout the 1871 staff.
We’ll be sharing the individual stories of our team through the next few months and beyond on the 1871 blog, as well as on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Additionally, we’ll be highlighting the stories of support 1871 member companies give to organizations throughout Chicago and beyond through volunteering, mentorship and education. Stay tuned via #1871gives on our social channels for more updates.
Today on #GivingTuesday, three 1871 staffers talk about their donations to the causes close to them:
“As a lifelong dog owner and lover, I've always been passionate about animal welfare. I decided to donate to PAWS Chicago because they do such a great job of sheltering Chicago's homeless pets in a no kill environment. This donation may help prevent pet overpopulation, provide much needed medical care and find loving homes for homeless dogs and cats during this holiday season.” -- Colleen Maxwell, Business Development Associate supporting PAWS Chicago
Follow PAWS Chicago: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
“June Rothstein -- my grandma, my muse, my guardian. June was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at what was considered a more abnormal early age and peacefully passed away in 2007.
While her memory may have slowly faded, I am beyond thankful that I shared a catalogue of memories with her growing up that I have yet to forget. Most importantly, the memory of every time I got to her and Grandpa's house, I would run in, lift my shirt up and ask (demand) for her to kiss my stomach with bright red lipstick.
This donation is for all of the belly kisses, the immaculately clean home and her love for family. I love you and miss you Grandma.” -- Gregory Rothstein, Manager of Photography, donated to the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
Follow the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
“The Chicago Women’s Health Center is a local organization that has been adapting to the changing health needs of American women, specifically the women of Chicago, since 1975 and an organization I am proud to support.
This CWHC provides services that are “focused on self-knowledge a peer approach to health care”. The types or resources they provide vary from childhood and adult education, to gynecological and obstetric services regardless if a client can pay or not, to their “feminist and person-centered counseling approach” among many more. And their list of services continues to grow just as the needs of the women in Chicago continue to grow.
Too often, members of the Queer and Trans communities are excluded from services provided at women’s health centers and it is the Chicago Women’s Health Center’s dedication to these communities through their Trans Greater Access Project and partnership with queer People’s Health Collective that confirmed my choice.
I found that similar to 1871’s consistent commitment to fostering a diverse ecosystem and embracing innovation of all types in this constantly evolving sector, the CWHC’s flexibility and adaptability allows them to do the exact same as they rise to meet the changing needs and identities for all of their community members.” -- Deena Siegel, Manager of Membership, donated to The Chicago Women’s Health Center
Follow the Chicago Women’s Health Center: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
