American Red Cross Presents McDermott with Circle of Humanitarians Award
CHICAGO (July 27, 2005) — The American Red Cross presented the Circle of Humanitarians Award to McDermott Will & Emery LLP today. The award was presented by William (Rick) Grinnan of the American Red Cross National Board of Governors and was accepted by Donald Hilliker, Chair of McDermott's Pro Bono and Community Service Committee and a partner in the Firm's Trial Department. Members of McDermott Will & Emery and the McDermott Will & Emery Charitable Foundation donated nearly $120,000 in January to the American Red Cross to aid in its tsunami relief effort in south Asia. The greater Chicago community contributed $10 million.
"We are very fortunate to have a partner that supports our mission to save lives at home and around the world," says Fran Maher, CEO of the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago.
The Circle of Humanitarians Award is the Red Cross's highest honor, which recognizes an influential group of donors who are in the top tier of financial contributions to the American Red Cross, giving at levels of over $100,000. The award recognizes corporations for their financial support of disaster relief efforts and the long-term relationship that exists between the organizations at the local level. In 2004, 57 corporations nationwide were designated Circle of Humanitarians by the American Red Cross. In 2005, more than 100 corporations will become members of the prestigious corporate donor group.
"I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the Firm, its Foundation, and our lawyers and staff in recognition of their generosity during this time of need," commented Mr. Hilliker. "We want to thank the American Red Cross and its workers for their extraordinary efforts in aiding the tsunami victims."
The American Red Cross is the nation's premier emergency response organization. As part of a worldwide movement that offers neutral humanitarian care to the victims of war, the American Red Cross distinguished itself by also aiding victims of devastating natural disasters. In addition to U.S. disaster relief, the Red Cross offers services in five other areas: community services that help the needy; support and comfort for military members and their families; the collection, processing and distribution of lifesaving blood and blood products; educational programs that promote health and safety; and international relief and development programs. For more information visit http://www.chicagoredcross.org/.
