Skokie Country Club

Skokie Country Club is a 501(c)(7) social and recreational club located in Glencoe, Illinois. It was founded in 1897 by a group of Chicago businessmen who aimed to create a family-oriented haven for sports and recreation. The club is known for its historic golf course, which is one of the oldest in the Chicago area, dating back to the late 19th-century golf boom.

History

The club's name, "Skokie," originates from the Potawatomi Indian word for "swamp," referring to the surrounding wetlands. Initially developed during a period when only a few golf courses existed in the Chicago area, Skokie Country Club quickly became a social hub for the region. Over the years, the club's golf course has undergone significant changes, including redesigns by notable architects such as William Langford and Rees Jones.

Mission and Activities

Skokie Country Club's mission is to serve as a family-oriented social and recreational club. It offers its members an array of facilities, including golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, and dining areas designed to promote social interaction and community building. The club has maintained its reputation as a premier private membership facility in the Midwest, emphasizing a vibrant community spirit and providing a sanctuary for relaxation and enjoyment.

Environmental Recognition

Skokie Country Club has been recognized for its environmental stewardship, achieving Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary status since 2001. This certification underscores the club's commitment to environmental management practices in areas such as wildlife and habitat management, water resource management, and outreach and education.

Financial Overview

As a 501(c)(7) organization, donations to Skokie Country Club are not tax-deductible. The club generates revenue primarily through program services and sales of inventory, with significant expenditures on executive compensation, employee wages, and club operations. Despite its classification, the club operates with substantial assets and liabilities, reflecting its ongoing investment in facilities and services.

Distinction and Community Impact

Skokie Country Club has a long history and a strong reputation within the community, providing a social and recreational hub that fosters family bonding and interaction among its members. Its commitment to maintaining high standards of recreational facilities and environmental conservation has positioned it as a leading club in American social and sporting life.