About the Contest

The NCAA Charity Challenge was established for the purpose of raising awareness of the very important charitable organizations that serve our communities and to provide an opportunity for our clients, vendors and partners to support their favorite charity. Congratulations to this year’s winner, Diane Billings of Prairie Analytical Systems, who left everyone in her college basketball bracket dust. Because of Diane’s superior bracket acumen, The Chicagoland Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure received this year’s donation of $1,000. We are proud to support The Chicagoland Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and their efforts to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find cures. We hope you will take some time to learn more about each organization and their important missions.

Charities

The following charitable organizations have partnered with True North Consultants.
We invite you to learn more about each organization and their work.

	The Anti-Cruelty Society is Chicago's oldest and largest animal welfare organization, helping over 50,000 animals and humans each year through their comprehensive programs and services. Learn more about The Anti-Cruelty Society at www.anticruelty.org			Habitat for Humanity of Illinois works in partnership with Habitat affiliates, developing communities by building houses with people in need. Learn more about Habitat for Humanity of Illinois at www.habitatillinois.org
	The Autism Society improves the lives of Illinois individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorders. Learn more about the Autism Society of Illinois at www.autismillinois.org			The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois grants wishes to children living with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy.   This year they hope to grant 765 amazing wishes in Illinois.  To learn more about the Make-A-Wish Foundation, visit www.wishes.org
	Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago is one of the largest youth serving, non-profit organizations in the city, serving over 10,000 young people at 16 after-school Clubs. Their mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. To learn more visit www.bgcc.org			The mission of The Salvation Army is to meet human needs without discrimination. The organization is made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, adherents, employees, volunteers and other individuals, all working to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those experiencing hardship. Approximately 89 cents out of every dollar received goes directly to programs and services. To learn more about The Salvation Army, visit www.salarmychicago.org
	Since 1882, Children's Memorial Hospital has been guided by the belief that all children should be able to grow up in a protective and nurturing environment, where each child is given the opportunity to reach his or her potential. Children’s Memorial Hospital believes this vision can provide a brighter future for all children. Learn more about the Children’s Memorial Hospital at www.childrensmemorial.org			Salute, Inc. is a recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides financial support for our military men and women through a variety of fundraising activities. Learn more about Salute, Inc. at www.saluteinc.org
	In response to our communities, Easter Seals Metropolitan Chicago provides comprehensive services for individuals with disabilities or other special needs and their families to improve quality of life and maximize independence. Learn more about Easter Seals Chicago at www.eastersealschicago.org			Special Olympics Illinois is a human service organization that uses the positive attributes of amateur sports to help children and adults with intellectual disabilities in day-to-day living. Learn more about the Special Olympics at www.soill.org
	The Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank, is a nonprofit food distribution and training center providing food for hungry people while striving to end hunger in our community. Learn more about the Greater Chicago Food Depository at www.chicagosfoodbank.org			Susan G. Komen for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. 75% of all net funds raised by our affiliate stay right here in the Chicagoland Area and the other 25% go to our National Research Program to find the cures. Learn more about Susan G. Komen for the Cure at www.komenchicago.org