Our CEO's letter to the editor about charitable giving was published by the Chicago Tribune this weekend.  Valerie reminds us that our year-end gifts are more important than ever, as nonprofits that provide essential services to the men, women, and children of Illinois are being clobbered by the economy and the State budget crisis.  She also offers tips on wise giving:

Please remember to give safely and wisely by evaluating the organization before you donate. Ensure the nonprofit can clearly define its mission, will discuss its programs and finances, does not use pressure tactics, and is willing to send you literature about its work or direct you to a website for more information.

For more information about how to evaluate a charitable organization, GuideStar.org is a good place to start as is the website of the Illinois Attorney General.

– Celeste Wroblewski, Vice President, External Relations