November 30th, 2012 
When was the last time you drank a bottle of water?
(Photo Credit: Mike Fan)
For millions of children and individuals in need, drinking a bottle of clean water is a luxury that they often have to go without due to lack of resources and extreme poverty.
Focused on the basic needs of people in developing countries, a couple hundred young Chicagoland professionals came together on November 10 for Concern’s Thanks for Giving ball to raise funds and awareness for Concern’s lifesaving charitable programs. This event was held at the Hard Rock Hotel in downtown Chicago and was hosted by the Concern Leadership Network, a passionate group of young professional volunteers.
Guests enjoyed tasty hor d’ourves and an open bar sponsored by Diageo at this second annual black-tie event. DJ Madrid spun upbeat tunes and attendees had the chance to bid on some great prizes, including a signed Chicago Bears jersey, fitness training and unique excursion packages.
(Photo Credit: Mike Fan)
More than $50,000 was raised during the event and all proceeds from the Thanks for Giving Ball benefit Concern’s education, malnutrition, sanitation, micro-finance and emergency aid programs for people in need in developing countries worldwide.
Jenny Hobbs, Concern Worldwide’s education advisor, addressed the crowd to share stories of her rewarding work as an educator in Africa. Hobbs thanked guests for their generosity that will empower girls and families to break the cycle of extreme poverty through education. “Your generosity tonight will enable countless children to receive a basic education, which is their key to a better life,” explained Hobbs.
For more information about Concern’s Young Leadership Network online.
