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One Book, One Chicago - The Third Coast
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
By: Rachel Yeomans

You've read the books. You've participated in the events. Now, meet those who make it all possible.

One Book, One Chicago – at its heart – is as an opportunity to engage and enlighten adults and teens, and to foster a sense of community through reading. One Book, One Chicago is a season of learning and engagement, focusing on a theme integral to the lives of all Chicagoans. This year’s selection, based upon the theme of “Chicago: The City That Gives,” is TheThird Coast, by Thomas Dyja.

Major funders of the One Book, One Chicago program include BMO Harris Bank, Allstate, the Chicago Community Trust, and United.  

“Giving back to the community is a priority at BMO Harris Bank—it’s a critical part of our culture,” states Diane Whatton, Director, U.S. Community Affairs at BMO Harris Bank. “Over the past year, we’ve donated to hundreds of nonprofits throughout Illinois, and are pleased to partner with The Chicago Public Library Foundation.”

"The Chicago Public Library's One Book, One Chicago program is one of the most respected reading initiatives in the entire country," says Dave Casper, President and CEO of BMO Harris Bank and Chicago Public Library Foundation Vice Chair. "It takes educational empowerment to new heights. It helps to support lifelong learning, and it is a source of pride for the entire city."

Cheryl Cooke, Manager of Corporate Giving at Allstate, shares that “[People’s] stories inspire us to do our best every day. That same instinct motivates us to sponsor programs like One Book One, Chicago – especially, here in our own hometown.”  

In recognition of its centennial anniversary, the Chicago Community Trust has contributed $25,000 to One Book One Chicago, its largest gift to date to this signature program. For the first time ever, One Book, One Chicago events will be available in every one of 79 CPL branch locations throughout the city, as programming continues through April 2016.

"[One Book, One Chicago] is not about a single book, but about the theme of Chicago," shares Cheryl Hughes, Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Chicago Community Trust. "It is the spirit of the region and philanthropy as a whole. It is vital to keeping a vibrant city."