FAQs about the Associate Board
How do I join the Associate Board?
How often does the Associate Board meet?
Where is the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago located?
Do I have to live in the Chicago land area to be a member?
What are the benefits of joining the Associate Board?
How do I purchase tickets to one of the annual fundraising events?
Where are philanthropic contributions to the Associate Board distributed?
How do I volunteer with the Associate Board?
Do I have to be an Associate Board member to volunteer at the hospital?
Are there other board involvement opportunities at RIC?
Who do I contact for more information on the Associate Board and its events?
FAQs
How do I join the Associate Board?
The Associate Board is always looking for new members that are passionate about supporting the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's vision and mission.
New members participate first as "potential members" for up to a year while they actively participate in planning fundraising events and attend meetings. At the end of this period an individual has the opportunity to become a full member of the board.
The Associate Board welcomes those interested in joining the board to attend one of its quarterly meetings or many events to learn more about the group.
For additional information, please contact Bridget Vrba at 312-238-1252 or bvrba@ric.org.
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How often does the Associate Board meet?
Full Associate Board meetings are held at RIC on a quarterly basis. There are also various social gatherings throughout the year including summer and winter holiday celebrations and the Board's fundraising events – ArtFutura and Bearcat Ball.
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Where is the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago located?
RIC Flagship Hospital
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
345 E. Superior Street
Chicago, IL 60611
Phone: 312-354-REHAB (7342)
Validated parking is available at the Self Parking lot at 321 E. Erie for Associate Board members and volunteers.
Community Facilities:
RIC has established a system of rehabilitation care with locations throughout the metropolitan Chicago area and the Midwest.
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Do I have to live in the Chicago land area to be a member?
No.
Although meetings and events take place in Chicago, there are opportunities for participation even at a distance. Some Associate Board members are on the east coast and even abroad. They remain active and connected with the board through serving on event planning committees, raising awareness in their local areas and making gift contributions.
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What are the benefits of joining the Associate Board?
Making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities by supporting the "#1 rehabilitation hospital in America"* continues to be the benefit members appreciate most.
In addition, the board provides an opportunity to network with emerging civic and business leaders – forming new lasting relationships. Members also have an opportunity to showcase talents and interests in planning fundraising events and organizing volunteer activities.
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How do I purchase tickets to one of the Associate Board's annual fundraising events?
Call 312-238-1253 for ticket information for ArtFutura and Bearcat Ball.
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Where are philanthropic contributions to the Associate Board distributed?
The Associate Board directs its contributions to a few primary entities within RIC – RIC's Pediatric and Adolescent Program, Pediatric Charity Care and art therapy programs through the Therapeutic Recreation Program.
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How do I volunteer as a member of the Associate Board?
Associate Board Companions (ABCs) are a special group of board volunteers who work with children on the Pediatrics and Adolescent unit.
A vital key to having a successful volunteer experience is maintaining a consistent and dependable schedule. Associate Board members should plan on a three-hour volunteer commitment each month.
Volunteers must participate in a general orientation providing information on RIC and volunteering. Training for assignments is provided by volunteer resources staff, a supervisor and/or a trained volunteer.
Contact the Associate Board's Volunteer Chair, Julie Boniecki (e-mail), to get started volunteering.
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Do I have to be an Associate Board member to volunteer at the hospital?
No.
Information on volunteering with RIC can be found at or by calling 312-238-6026 or e-mailing volunteer@ric.org.
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Are there other board involvement opportunities at the RIC?
Yes.
The Women's Board was founded in 1960. Since that time, it has provided major funding for the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago's Charity Care Fund, and has made significant annual contributions to many special programs including:
For more information about the Women's Board, please call: 312-238-6023.
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Whom do I contact for more information on the Associate Board and its events?
For more information about the Associate Board of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, please contact:
Bridget Vrba
Manager, Associate Board
312-238-1252
bvrba@ric.org
or
Mindy Moore
Associate Director, Event Services
312-238-6016
mmoore@ric.org
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*Since 1991 U.S.News & World Report has reported that RIC is the "#1 Rehabilitation Hospital in America."