1.  What experience does The Council have in this area?

The Council is not new to the endeavors of The Wellness Institute. Our highly trained staff, led by Carl C. Bell M.D, President and CEO, currently uses several of the evidence-based practices. Dr. Bell has spent a lifetime in psychiatry, personal coaching and research in the areas of wellness and resiliency. The Council's 35-year history of delivering quality, evidence-based behavioral health services further demonstrates our committment and expertise.

2. How will The Council raise the money it needs for this project?

Through the Committee of 1000, the Board of Directors and Auxiliary Board, we plan to raise $3 million in pledges to establish the Wellness Institute. The campaign will also seek the generous support of small businesses, community leaders, foundations and corporations. All donations to The Wellness Institute's Capital Campaign will be restricted to the Wellness Institute Capital Campaign Fund.

3. How much money has been raised for the campaign?

Over the past years, funds have been directed towards research and development. Along with annual fundraising events through 2009, we have secured more than $50,000 as seed money.

4. What is the timeline for the project?

The Wellness Campaign is underway and we are gathering funds to really get it going.  In the meantime, we are doing various activities geared toward making wellness a reality, i.e., we are helping the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services institute “Psychological First Aid” throughout their system and this technology should help abused and neglected youth to be more resilient than simply damaged.

5. I already support The Council by attending events and/or making annual gifts. Why is an additional gift to The Council's Wellness Institute Campaign needed?

We greatly appreciate your ongoing support of our annual giving efforts. We urge The Council's friends to continue to support these events, while at the same time considering a "stretch" contribution or pledge to The Wellness Institute Capital Campaign. The success of this campaign requires the special generosity of all those who believe in the importance of strengthening the well-being of children, families and our community.

6. Are there tax advantages to making gifts to The Council's Wellness Institute Capital Campaign?

Gifts to The Wellness Institute Capital Campaign are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

7. What happens if the full amount is not raised?

Through the generous giving of its supporters, The Council is confident that the campaign goal will be achieved. However, in the event the full amount is not secured, the project will be implemented in phases.

8. If I have a question, whom should I call?

Questions about the campaign may be directed to Bettye White at 773.734.4033 ext. 137 or via e-mail at bwhite@thecouncil-online.org.