What are the chances? It hasn’t happened yet, but as the Cubs have proven, this could be the year…the year to beat the odds and for Wintrust to gift $1 million to Cubs Charities with a single swing of the bat.

How is this possible? As official banking partners of the Chicago Cubs, our Wintrust logo sits atop the 42-by-95 foot video screen above the left field bleachers. We’re proud to display our commitment to the Cubs and this city. We’re also excited to continue our pledge to donate $1 million dollars to Cubs Charities if a Cubs batter hits a ball into the “W” of the Wintrust logo. By nature of where the sign is, this would already be a home run and must occur during the 2017 regular season or postseason to result in a donation.*

It’s no coincidence our company’s name begins with “W” when the symbolism of this letter runs deep in Cubs history. Since the 1930s, a white flag with a navy blue “W” has flown throughout the city after a winning game. Wrigley Field also hoisted this flag to signify the game’s outcome to neighbors and passengers on the nearby L. Now, the “W” in the Wintrust logo is electronic, but it’s meaning is all the same. So, when the Cubs win a game today, the singular first letter is lit up in celebration of the achievement. This homage signifies Wintrust’s love of the team’s unique traditions.

"It is incredibly impactful when our corporate partners pledge their support to help us improve the health, fitness and education of children and families across Chicago,” said Cubs Charities Vice President of Development Connie Falcone. “We’ll eagerly watch for that $1 million strike of the bat thanks to Wintrust."

From its start in 1986, Cubs Charities has donated more than $25 million to local nonprofits. The organization gives back to local children and families by partnering with programs that focus on health, fitness and education improvements. Cubs Charities also works to expand sports opportunities for those who may not have access. Wintrust is proud to support this influential organization, especially when a player hits our “W”. 

“When we joined the Cubs as a Legacy Partner, we made a commitment to supporting the team’s efforts on the field and in the community,” said Wintrust CEO Ed Wehmer. “We were excited to help develop an idea that combined both possibilities and are rooting for a Cubs player to deliver that giant ‘W’ to the team and Chicagoland community through the efforts of Cubs Charities.” 

A home run in any game is exciting, but we can only imagine what it will be like when a baseball smacks that “W” in the Wintrust logo. It’ll definitely be a win in our book.   

*Official promotion rules are available at Fan Services at Wrigley Field.