Today, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that Chicago will take part in the opening day of #GivingTuesday, by partnering with the 92nd Street Y of New York City in a national effort to promote philanthropy. The purpose of the campaign is to highlight the spirit of giving back at the start of the annual holiday shopping season.

“I am pleased that Chicago’s partnership with this national endeavor will promote philanthropy and enhance corporate citizenship throughout our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Emanuel. “I applaud Giving Tuesday for initiating a conversation on innovative ways for everyone to give back during the holidays. In the spirit of giving, residents and organizations in Chicago and across the nation will work together to contribute to their local communities.”

Across the nation, retailers, charities, online organizations, community groups, families and more will come together with the common purpose of helping others. #GivingTuesday encourages people to take pause during the holiday season and donate to charities and other organizations while shopping for their loved ones. This call to action will increase giving in a smarter way while celebrating the great American spirit of contribution as part of the holiday season.

“Chicago has been a great supporter of #GivingTuesday and Mayor Emanuel’s leadership and support is very much appreciated,” Sol Adler, Executive Director of 92Y, the founding organization of #GivingTuesday, said. “Groupon has hosted a critical brainstorm session with a range of local leaders and thinkers and many Chicago companies and charities are stepping up to participate in fantastic activities today and throughout the season.”

Other Chicago participants include Chicagoland Habitat for Humanity, City Year Chicago, Cristo Rey Network, Danny Did Foundation, DonorFuse, Environmental Law and Policy Center, Evangelical Covenant Church, Feeding America, Grandparents on a Mission, Groupon, Immaculate Conception School, Leap Learning Systems, Loyola University, Starwood Hotels, The Paul Carlson Partnership, NBC Chicago, Edelman,  The South Asian Philanthropy Project, United Way Metro, Karma Gift List, and UCAN join over 2,000 organizations across 50 states and 92nd Street Y to expand this campaign. The coordinated efforts of these organizations, families and individuals will empower #GivingTuesday (www.givingtuesday.org) to further its mission of giving and giving back to local communities. Mayor Emanuel issued an official proclamation on #GivingTuesday.

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