CHICAGO — Jim McBride, CEO of nude celebrity site MrSkin.com, has announced a $10,000 pledge of support to the Chicago Community Bond Fund, the Collaboraction Theatre Company, the Gray Matter Experience and the nonprofit affiliated with Black Lives Matter to bolster local communities "in this time of social transformation."
"When I launched MrSkin 21 years ago, it was always my mission to celebrate the human body in all its shapes, sizes and colors. What we do has always been intended to be lighthearted and joy-sparking, and we’ve typically avoided addressing political and social issues," said McBride in a statement announcing the endowment.
"Today, however, there is a movement happening around the country and in our city which requires our energy and public support. Systemic racism and police brutality against people of color have plagued our city of Chicago for far too long, and we all must do our part as members of the community to make a difference."
The $10,000 will be split equally among the four charities which are "doing great work to effect real change in Chicago," explained McBride.
"In addition to these donations, our company is planning to offer ongoing support of local Chicago charities through regular volunteer work organized by our staff," he continued. "Big changes are happening around the country and here in our city but we know this will be a long and ongoing battle to change systems which have been centuries in the making."
"We are in this for the long haul and are committed to being an ally in the fight for equal rights and justice for black Americans and all other marginalized communities," concluded McBride.
Find Black Lives Matter, the Chicago Community Bond Fund, the Collaboraction Theatre Company and the Gray Matter Experience online for additional details.
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