Why I joined ECOSS – Audrey Chestnutt

March 6, 2009 / / No Comments

Last year when I was looking for a change in jobs, I knew I wanted to get back into the non-profit world because I found more meaning in my day when I could connect all the tasks—even the mundane—to a purpose other than making some money for myself (and even more money for a handful of people at the top of the food chain). I didn’t and still don’t subscribe to the idea that for-profit means evil, or that businesses are anything but groups of people trying to do their best.

That’s what impressed me the most about ECOSS – the underlying assumption upon which the organization was founded is that everyone is trying their best already, and given the right conditions (awareness, resources, and assistance), businesses, residents, and communities would make choices with positive environmental impacts. Combining the belief in the capabilities, willingness, and conscience of the people in Puget Sound with the intent to promote ecologically sustainable results through direct, hands-on services for citizens and businesses is what allows ECOSS to achieve the greatest results, and I wanted to be a part of that team. ECOSS has unlocked the secret to creating a healthier, sustainable Puget Sound region—partnership.

Unlike other organizations, we assume that we’re all on the same side. This shows up in our commitment to free, confidential assistance for all our clients, and in our ongoing efforts to provide health and environmental programming for underserved and ESL populations. Many other environmental non-profits are fighting against something or someone; we believe that the best way to harness the energy we need to make real change is through a collective effort fighting FOR a healthy community, environment, and economy. After all, if we don’t all win in this game called life on earth, then don’t we all lose?

Join the Pioneers of Seattle’s Green Economy

March 4, 2009 / / No Comments

Let’s get the first thing straight – we know that you’ve begun to tighten your belt—we all have. With the economy in recession, we understand that you are even more conscious about where your money goes and are probably looking for ways to eliminate non-essentials, and likely for ways to save on the essentials. If you’ve been listening to the news, it also looks like the clouds over our economic forecast will persist even longer than a Seattle winter. The sad irony is that unfortunately during times of economic hardship, the needs of our constituents rise dramatically as funding becomes more scarce. This is especially true in the case of ECOSS, as the majority of our clients are small or medium sized businesses and families who were probably already struggling before the economy took a turn for the worse. Those lucky enough to have retained their jobs are doing the work of many, and are now too busy to keep track of their compliance needs or complex environmental issues. And at home, it is no different—no one should have to make the tough choices being made every night at dinner tables across the region. But now is the time to strengthen the small business sector and financially stressed families – so when stocks begin to rise once again, when our currency regains its value, when the United States is once again a beacon of light, hope and promise – these vital contributors to American society can also emerge stronger and more secure. The Emerald City has always been a leader in both the green movement and in advancing awareness of social justice issues – and your membership dollars will go directly to programs that allow ALL Puget Sound residents to contribute to and benefit from the redevelopment of our resources and our awareness. Your membership donation is an investment in your community and a contribution to the health of the environment.

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Through your tax-deductible membership contribution, you provide critical funds to keep the organization strong and healthy – and you receive great member benefits from ECOSS and other members of the community, including:

  • ECOSS’ Quarterly Newsletter
  • Monthly E-news
  • Advance Notice of Events
  • Discounts to Events
  • Acknowledgement on the ECOSS Website and Newsletter
  • Invitation to Exclusive Member and Donor Appreciation Event
  • 10% discount coupon to ecohaus, the Northwest’s premier green building supply provider (individual members)
  • 50% discount to Sustainable Industries Magazine and discount on advertising (business members)

We only ask for your contributions a few times a year. We ask for your membership to provide the necessary funds to keep our programs up and running so we can continue to be a voice for a clean environment and urban redevelopment. We are strong and make a difference in our community because of the partners we have in businesses and individuals like you.

Your letter is in the mail. If you have been a member in the past, please consider renewing. If you have never donated before, there has never been a better time. You can also join online. If you can’t contribute at this time, please consider volunteering your time or talent at the organization.

Thank you for all you do,

-Elise and the Staff at ECOSS

Notes from the Development Desk

February 6, 2009 / / No Comments

ECOSS is gearing up to begin our membership drive! Check your mail and email in the coming weeks for some really exciting partnership announcements, discounts and the opportunity to join this great organization.

Save the Date for ECOSS’ night at the Comedy Underground, courtesy of Non-Profit Comedy!  Our comedy benefit show will be taking place on April 21st – the day before Earth Day! Gear up for the celebration by enjoying food, drink, and lots of laughs with us. Further details will be announced soon.