But even those efforts are not enough to fill the needs that surround us each day. Despite what we can offer from within our own walls, we increase our efforts by enlisting the assistance of our sponsors, our fans and individuals who share our philanthropic aspirations.

In 1987, we founded a nonprofit organization to aid in civic tasks, especially where children are concerned. CharitaBulls was formed with the mission to enhance the lives of Chicago’s youth by actively creating and supporting educational, recreational and social programs. By fundraising through special events, raffles, corporate and personal donations, we have been able to multiply our financial resources and provide a wealth of support to children and young adults throughout the Chicagoland area.

CharitaBulls Programs

Luol Deng has participated in the NBA’s Basketball Without Borders program the last two summers. (NBAE/Getty Images)

Bulls Scholars
As part of its commitment to education, CharitaBulls continues to support the Bulls Scholars academic program in conjunction with Chicago Public Schools. Launched in 1998 with a $3.5 million CharitaBulls donation, Bulls Scholars offers seventh and eighth grade students in the Chicago Public Schools system the option to enroll in an additional English and/or algebra course during after-school hours. Students successfully completing the program earn high school credit and learn valuable skills that will assist them with the transition into higher education.

Nearly 1,000 students enroll in the Bulls Scholars program each year. CharitaBulls continues to encourage and motivate those students by scheduling appearances from our players and representatives and distributing complimentary tickets to home games and special events. At the close of the program each spring, we recognize the students for their commitment to academic excellence at the Bulls Scholars Jam where our players, mascots and live entertainers organize a celebration in their honor.

James Jordan Boys and Girls Club and Family Life Center
In 1994, the James Jordan Boys & Girls Club and Family Life Center was erected in memory of James Jordan, father of Bulls great Michael Jordan. CharitaBulls donated $4.5 million to construct the 40,000 square foot facility located just two blocks from the United Center. The Club features a computer center, art studio, science lab, healthcare clinic, gym, daycare center, dance and game room, classrooms and more.

Since its opening in 1996, the Club has served approximately 1,500 neighborhood children and their families each year as part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago network. CharitaBulls continues to provide financing for the Center’s programs and complimentary Bulls tickets to the children who frequent the Club.

Chicago Public Library
In 1994, we pledged our support to the Chicago Public Library System by adopting the Mabel Manning Branch Library, located just two blocks west of the United Center. CharitaBulls contributed $50,000 to furnish its Computer Court, a tech center with computers, printers and software for use by library patrons. In 1998, we pledged an additional $50,000 to upgrade the Computer Court’s hardware and software and hire a part-time tutor.

Ben Wallace at the Tip-Off Luncheon

In addition, we regularly participate in the library’s educational programs, donate new and used books, schedule events at the library and provide complimentary game tickets to children and families who utilize the branch.

Chicago Park District Basketball Programs
Since 1995, CharitaBulls has donated over $800,000 to a variety of Chicago Park District basketball programs including leagues for men, women and children. Currently, our non-profit organization funds the Inner City Hoops League and Citywide Championships that serve as grassroots programs for children, ages 9-12.

In 1990, a $1 million, five-year commitment was made by CharitaBulls to refurbish 140 damaged city basketball courts through the Chicago Park District/CharitaBulls Basketball Court Renovation. The courts continue to be used for a variety of Park District leagues, tournaments and recreational play.

Bulls Renew Commitment to Chicago Park District
On Friday, February 25, 2005, former Chicago Bull Bob Love presented the Chicago Park District with a check for over $80,000 on behalf of CharitaBulls. The donation extends CharitaBulls’ 10-year partnership with the Park District and allows for the continuation of the Inner City Hoops and Citywide Championships programs. An additional donation allowed the Park District to launch a new Teen League at 18 locations across the city.

Other Recipients
As part of our goal, CharitaBulls strives to assist other organizations who share our mission of enhancing the lives of children. To that end, we have recently contributed to the efforts of a number of Chicagoland non-profit organizations through financial and in-kind donations.

CharitaBulls Fundraising

To fund the numerous programs CharitaBulls supports, we rely on contributions from our corporate partners, individuals and the following annual fundraising events and programs:

Tip-Off Luncheon
Each October, we officially open the season by hosting nearly 1,000 guests at our Tip-Off Luncheon. Held at a downtown Chicago hotel, the event provides our fans and supporters with the opportunity to hear what is on tap for the upcoming season with addresses from management, coaches and the players themselves. In conjunction with the event, we hold a silent auction of autographed Bulls memorabilia and all proceeds benefit CharitaBulls.

50/50 Raffle
At every home game during the regular season we sell tickets for our 50/50 Raffle. During the fourth quarter of each home game, one lucky winner is drawn to take home 50 percent of the evening’s net earnings from ticket sales. The remaining 50 percent benefits CharitaBulls. Since the 1996.97 season when it was first introduced, the 50/50 Raffle has raised over $1 million.