- Why do employers include Earth Share of Illinois
(ESIL) in their payroll contribution plans?
- What kind of work do ESIL groups do?
- Why does ESIL focus on payroll contribution as a way
to raise funds?
- How does Earth Share of Illinois distribute the
funds it receives from pledges?
1. Why do employers include Earth Share
of Illinois (ESIL) in their payroll contribution plans?
More and more
employers recognize the diverse interests of employees--employees who
are interested in human health and the environment. In addition, many companies are incorporating environmental sustainability into their social responsibility strategies.
2. What kind of work do ESIL groups do?
ESIL members work to improve our environment locally, nationally and internationally.
They work for a cleaner environment, protection of wildlife and habitat,
environmental justice, outdoor recreation, and more. ESIL groups work on initiatives to reduce the impact of global warming and improve public health. Their annual accomplishments
make our world a cleaner, greener place. To view a short description of each of ESIL's member groups, please click here.
3. Why does ESIL focus on payroll contribution
as a way to raise funds?
Efficiency: Raising funds through payroll contribution in workplace giving
campaigns is many times cheaper than direct mail (the most common way
that environmental groups gain new members). With lower fund-raising costs,
more money can go directly to programs and services.
Convenience: Once a year donors decide which issues to support and the
donation comes directly from their paycheck. Donors are able to have their donations designated to a specific ESIL organization, or have their donation distributed amongst ESIL's 60 member groups.
Consistency: Funds raised through payroll contribution help our groups plan
into the future. ESIL is a consistent source of income that our member groups can rely on.
Accountability: ESIL member groups are carefully screened each year and
are held to strict accountability standards. This gives our donors peace
of mind, knowing their money is being well managed.
4. How does Earth Share of Illinois
distribute the funds it receives from pledges?
ESIL is a
completely donor-driven federation; we encourage employees to select a
specific organization(s) they want to help most. If a donor does not specify a member group, donations to ESIL are divided among its member organizations.
