FROM A PRESS RELEASE
CHICAGONov. 9Howard Brown Health Center ( HBHC ) has announced that it has received a $100,000-challenge grant in response to its Lifeline Appeal launched Nov. 4, according to a press release.
The gift comes from an individual who previously had a family member treated at Howard Brown. The donor, who chooses to remain anonymous, will match donations 1:1 up to $100,000, enabling donors to double the impact of their contribution to the appeal.
In a news conference Nov. 4, Howard Brown made an unprecedented appeal to the community to help raise $500,000 in 50 days in order to sustain its health and wellness services and to keep operating. Immediately, donations of all sizes started coming in from donors willing to help keep Howard Brown open. Within five days, the organization raised $90,000 through donationsfrom on-line to cash donations by walk-in donors.
Upon hearing the news about the crisis, one donor called Howard Brown President and CEO Jamal M. Edwards. After a brief, but emotional, conversation, the donor generously offered a $100,000 challenge grant for the appeal. The donor credits HBHC with saving his son's life and said, "We can't let this happen; we can't let Howard Brown fail."
The challenge grant is contingent upon raising matching funds of $100,000 by Nov. 30.
Edwards shared the news with his executive team, all of whom were reportedly deeply and emotionally moved by the gesture.
"At the end of the day, it is because of the work we dothe life-changing and life-saving workthat people must, and will, support us. This gift confirms that, as does the immediate outpouring of community support we've received to date including gifts and the sharing of testimonials in our "50 Stories in 50 Days" series," said Rob Garofalo, M.D., who leads Howard Brown's research division and is Howard Brown's expert on adolescent health.
"Our challenge donor has bolstered our much needed lifeline, because he and his family believe in us and the work we do. That has and will make all of the difference for our future," said Edwards. "We reached out to the community for a lifeline, and people are responding. We still have a lot to do before the deadline, but because of this generous donor's challenge grant, gift can now count twice toward the goal. A donation of $25 will be $50 and $75 will be $150."
Edwards added that the appeal has benefited from strong grassroots support and the local business community.
To donate to Howard Brown's Lifeline appeal, visit www.HowardBrown.org or call 773-388-1600.