Chicago is great because Chicago is good.
Civic leaders and others moved by our midwestern belief in hard work, giving back and collaboration have long worked together to solve hard social problems and grow world-class opportunities in our city.
The next generation of Chicago philanthropists and leaders think even more strategically. An example is the nonprofit “A Better Chicago,” which is the brainchild of Liam Krehbiel.
“A Better Chicago” amplifies donations of $100,000, which it gives to nonprofits demonstrating great potential to make the most lives better per dollar spent, with pro bono advice from consulting firms Bain & Co, Latham Watkins and Accenture. Krehbiel describes this as “venture philanthropy.”
Hope and philanthropy are almost synonymous for jeweler Harry Winston, Inc. Founder Winston donated the Hope Diamond to the Smithsonian Institution. The firm routinely donates 5 percent of its annual earnings too. However, this year Harry Winston is also donating 100 percent of the sales of the limited edition “Hope Bracelet,” which costs $2,500, to a nonprofit selected in each city with a Harry Winston location
“A Better Chicago” was selected for the Oak Street store.
Within 48 hours of its Hope Bracelet release, the Chicago store sold out. And, of course, Chicago sold out faster than any other location! Manager Diana Hall of Kenilworth (right), requested more and she got them.
This could be good news for your holiday shopping.
The Hope Bracelet may well be the perfect present for yourself or someone that you love. It’s crafted at the intersection of luxury and philanthropy. But, if you are interested, please don’t dally. As of today only a few remain.