Each year in October Northern Trust holds its global volunteer initiative, Achieving Greater Together. While we volunteer all year long, it’s an opportunity for all our employees to come together and support the communities where we live and work. As part of that, Northern Trust held its third Charity Trading Day on October 16 to benefit four nonprofit organizations aligned with our philanthropic strategy.

Last year’s Charity Trading Day raised a total of US$700,000 for global charities: Global Red Cross and Red Crescent Network, Ronald McDonald House Charities®, War Child and World Central Kitchen. And this year we raised US$1 million - based upon the day’s trading revenues -  for four very worthy causes.

But our commitment goes well beyond making financial support. Throughout the coming year Northern Trust employees will also volunteer more than 100,000 hours to these and other charities. As another way to connect and collaborate with our clients, we will also be inviting them to come together and join us in our volunteering efforts.

How our communities benefit

Our global philanthropy strategy focuses on four key areas of fundamental impact proven to improve financial futures: accessible healthcare, affordable housing, quality education and food security. This year’s Charity Trading Day and volunteering program benefits four nonprofit organizations that align with our philanthropic focus.

Since 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has grown to become a leading global nonprofit housing organization, helping families and individuals build and improve places they can call home. Habitat works in local communities across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, and more than 70 countries, partnering with families, volunteers, and supporters worldwide to ensure more people have access to affordable and safe housing. Learn More.

Rise Against Hunger is an international nonprofit growing a global movement to end hunger. Through a global network based in the U.S. and with six international offices, the organization provides meals and other assistance for people facing hunger today. Rise Against Hunger also implements sustainable agriculture projects that support long-term food security and empower communities. Learn More.

Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of over 255 Chapters in 62 countries and regions, RMHC provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. Learn More.

Urban Initiatives believes every Chicago student should have access to the power of sports and play regardless of their socioeconomic background. For 20 years, UI has hired local coaches and placed them in Chicago Public Schools, advancing their mission to foster academic success, facilitate social-emotional growth, and build social capital in youth by providing free play-based programs. UI's programs reach over 80,000 Chicago Public School students annually and are on track to serve 100,000 by 2025. Learn More.