City of Chicago seeking GLBT Greeters

	From a Press Release

CHICAGO (November 21, 2011) — Love your neighborhood? Show it off! Chicago Greeter is seeking friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers to join the program in 2012. This award-winning visitor service managed by the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture pairs local Chicagoans with visitors looking for an insider introduction to the city. Home to a vibrant cultural scene, stunning architecture, innovative dining and destination shopping, Chicago welcomes nearly 40 million visitors annually from around the world. While for most visitors, the city's downtown is a must see, the surrounding communities have much to offer as well. Through Chicago Greeter, volunteers share what they know and love about the city and visitors take away a truly authentic Chicago experience by discovering lesser known neighborhood gems. Potential Greeters interested in volunteering can apply at www.chicagogreeter.com/apply . Nearly 200 Chicagoans regularly volunteer their time through the Chicago Greeter program, reaching visitors from all 50 states and over 90 different countries. Greeters highlight various neighborhoods and interests for visitors on two- to four-hour excursions. They show off their knowledge of local history, ethnic heritage, architectural highlights, culinary hotspots, public art, GLBT Chicago, family-friendly destinations and more. Each Chicago Greeter leads a group of up to six people and is matched with visitors based on interests, availability and language. Volunteers are encouraged to personalize visits based on their own insights and experiences, while taking guests across the city on a journey that showcases its diversity as well as its walkability and user-friendly public transit system. With 77 distinct communities in Chicago, there's no limit to what visitors can discover, from rich histories to favorite traditions, and hidden treasures to local landmarks. Have fun showcasing the city, meet new people from around the world and give back to your community. Becoming a Chicago Greeter requires no additional experience, only a passion for Chicago. Volunteers are provided with basic training and asked to volunteer at least six times a year. All interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Chicago Greeter seeks volunteers familiar with Chicago neighborhoods, especially South and Northwest Side communities like Bronzeville, Hyde Park, Pilsen, Bridgeport, Bucktown, Wicker Park and Albany Park. Candidates with foreign language skills, such as Spanish, French, German and Mandarin, as well as others, are also encouraged to apply. A founding member of the Global Greeter network, Chicago Greeter is recognized internationally for its innovation and consistently ranked as one of the most popular programs of its kind in the world. Celebrating 10 years in 2012, Chicago Greeter has served approximately 5,500 visitors in 2011 alone. To learn more, visitwww.ChicagoGreeter.com . # # # VISITOR INFORMATION RESOURCES Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive trip-planning assistance and information by visiting www.ExploreChicago.org . Brochures and information on Chicago's exciting events and activities are also available at the Visitor Information Centers. Friendly Visitor Representatives can answer questions and assist in planning an unforgettable itinerary. The visitor centers are located in two of the city's most popular areas: across from Millennium Park in the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph Street; and at the historic Water Works pumping station, 163 E. Pearson Street at Michigan Avenue. For daily alerts about fun and free things to do in the city, follow Explore Chicago on Twitter atwww.Twitter.com/ExploreChicago and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ExploreChicago , where you can also weigh in on your Chicago favorites. Get answers to your Chicago questions on the go, restaurant recommendations, and tips on citywide events and activities via the FREE Twitter Concierge Service @explorechicago available daily. The Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture is dedicated to promoting Chicago as a premier cultural destination to domestic and international leisure travelers, providing innovative visitor programs and services, and presenting free world-class public programs. For more information please visit www.ExploreChicago.org .