Autumn is in the air in northwest Illinois. There’s a chill to the winds that blow, the days are getting shorter, and the leaves are now steadily drifting downward. And, like all the other creatures around us, we are also starting to prepare for a bit of a winter respite.
As we settle into this annual routine of nesting and feasting, it is common for us to look back on the year that rapidly passed us by, take inventory of our lives, and give thanks for the many blessings that have come our way.
The season of Thanksgiving is also the start of the season of giving, which is exactly what I encourage everyone who reads this to please consider doing in the coming weeks: give of yourself to those who are less fortunate. The need is great throughout Northwest Illinois, but I truly believe our collective heart and giving spirit is significantly greater.
And while I would be remiss if I did not include the obligatory appeal for your support of The Foundation for Northwest Illinois—the only local funding source for all Northwest Illinois nonprofit organizations, a funding source that keeps your dollars local, directly impacting your neighborhood, your community and the Northwest Illinois economy—wherever and however you and yours decide to give is, ultimately, a personal decision. With that, I encourage everyone to follow their hearts this holiday giving season, whether you give a financial gift, a gift of service, or tangible gifts of goods. The bottom line is simple: please give. We are much Stronger, Together.
Best wishes to all for the coming Thanksgiving holiday!
