Projects and Testimonials

Gastro-Intestinal Research Foundation of Chicago (GIRF)
Coaching, TrainingFounded in 1962, the Gastro-Intestinal Research Foundation of Chicago (GIRF) is dedicated to raising funds for clinical and laboratory research in digestive diseases in the Gastroenterology Section at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Facing exciting growth challenges and questions about how to integrate two associate boards into the organization’s core mission, Giving Tree Associates was asked to facilitate a board development initiative in November of 2011. The project included one-on-one board member and professional interviews and culminated in a full day board retreat. Since November 2012, Giving Tree has continued to serve in a coaching capacity on issues of board leadership and professional development.
Jennifer Wright Executive Director
Gastro-Intestinal Research Foundation of Chicago
"We hired Giving Tree Associates to lead a half-day retreat for our Board of Directors. This retreat turned out to be a catalyst for a complete re-organization of our Board of Directors and volunteers. Amy’s honest assessment of our organization’s strengths and weaknesses has helped us take the critical steps needed to help us operate more efficiently, and ultimately, much more successfully. We had no idea how badly we needed an update in our model of operation until Giving Tree helped us through this comprehensive evaluation."









