Cooney and Conway has always had a staff dedicated to giving back to the community, led by partners and attorneys who are involved in projects outside of the office. With this attitude of giving back, the “Jeans and Jerseys” event was kicked off to help raise funds for the victims of the devastating storms last fall in central Illinois. Following the great success of this event, a “Chili Cook Off” was held to help support the local Night Ministry program that provides housing and care to teens and young adults struggling with poverty and homelessness. Staff members contributed favorite chili recipes, which were taste-tasted by partners and awarded prizes based on texture, originality and heat. Staff members were invited to sample the submissions in exchange for a donation the Night Ministry. Once again, the staff of Cooney & Conway was able to raise a significant amount of money - graciously matched by the partners of the firm.
The Charity Committee
It was then decided that a group of staff members would form a special committee dedicated to organizing future charity events and fundraisers. Each member of the committee is passionate about giving back, with personal charitable commitments that benefit the homeless, the impoverished, the infirm and the disabled, as well as animal welfare projects and agencies. Members carry these passions outside of work, whether the involvement is volunteering at Ronald McDonald House, running a 5k, or working a local school event, these members are passionate about giving back!
Catching the spirit of the Winter Olympics in Sochi, the committee held its inaugural event by hosting an appetizer cook-off to benefit the Illinois Chapter of the Special Olympics. The charity helps people with intellectual disabilities use their involvement in sports to develop a belief in themselves, and pride in their communities. Staff members were invited to bring in globally-inspired appetizers, with partners again awarding prizes to the 3 best-tasting offerings. This time, staff members sampled the submissions in exchange for a donation to the Special Olympics. This Cooney & Conway event was a great success, with staff members’ donations being generously matched by the partners.
Going forward, the members are hopeful to reach out and touch more lives by getting involved in more community-based programs. Members recognize the resources that we have to offer, and the concomitant responsibility of giving back as often as possible. Our goal is to get every Cooney & Conway employee involved in this commitment - not just to charitable giving, but to charitable involvement, and to inspire others to do the same!
We look forward to the events that this wonderful committee has planned for us!