Geneva Giving Trees to benefit nonprofits

The Geneva History Center has invited local nonprofit organizations to engage in a new initiative called Geneva Giving Trees.

Fourteen local charities are currently decorating a Christmas tree of their choice, which will be unveiled to the public at the Geneva History Center, 113 S. Third St. on Friday, Dec. 5 during the Christmas Walk.

All participating nonprofit organizations serve the Geneva area. Each organization has decorated its tree in accordance with its mission and areas of service. Participating organizations include: Elderday Center, Glenwood School for Boys and Girls, Tri-City Health Partnership, Geneva Academic Foundation, Fox River Chapter of the American Red Cross, Marklund, Geneva Green Market, St. Peter Community Food Pantry, Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley, Mother's Club of Geneva, Three Cups of Tea, The Salvation Army Golden Diners Service, Mutual Ground and the Rotary Club of Geneva. In addition, the Rotary Club of Geneva will be highlighting the work of other local nonprofit organizations.

The impetus for the Geneva Giving Trees came from Geneva History Center board member Mary Bencini who wanted to find a way to highlight the good work that local nonprofits do in the community.

The response has been overwhelming. Geneva History Center Executive Director Dave Oberg noted, "We had given away every tree within 72 hours of announcing the program. Response was so overwhelming that we sought out additional trees until we filled our hallway and our entire exhibit gallery. I love the idea of calling attention to the efforts of our local nonprofits, many of whom have deep roots in our history."

Beginning on Friday, Dec. 5, the public will be invited to visit the Geneva History Center and vote for their favorite tree with their dollars. The winning organization will be announced at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30 at the Geneva History Center. The winning organization will keep 100 percent of the funds pledged to support their tree. The remaining organizations will split their winnings with the Geneva History Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the past for a better understanding of the present and an improved future. For information, call Dave Oberg, executive director, at (630) 232-4951 or e-mail at Exec_Dir@genevahistorycenter.org.