In the 1990s, a series of surveys and workshops asked Oregonians how they viewed our state’s future. They resoundingly called for clean air and water, open space, parklands, natural areas, and places for fish and wildlife.

Each year since 1989, Earth Share helps Oregonians to support environmental and conservation groups that work to keep people healthy, preserve places for wildlife and reduce global warming. WaterWatch of Oregon's membership in Earth Share of Oregon enables us to reach out to a broad cross–section of the state that might not otherwise learn about our work. This boosts our financial support and helps us build bridges based on understanding the challenges and successes of environmental work.

Last year, funds raised through Earth Share enabled WaterWatch to protect and restore natural streamflows in rivers across the state of Oregon.

Here’s how it works:  Earth Share coordinates with private and public employers to offer a payroll deduction option for employees to either give to all 71 Earth Share of Oregon (ESOR) member groups or to designate a gift for one (or a few select) members.

The key to success for ESOR members is participation – increasing the number of employers who offer this opportunity to their employees.  This is where you can help.

First, find out if your workplace allows employees to donate to Earth Share of Oregon.  If you aren’t sure, check the list of Earth Share’s Business Partners at www.earthshare-oregon.org.

Next, if you don’t have an Earth Share campaign, ask your company president or other top leaders if they would consider starting one.  Trudy Toliver, Earth Share of Oregon’s Executive Director, can help you approach your company’s leaders and provide materials for them to review. If you are a business owner or top decisionmaker, it makes adding an Earth Share campaign much easier!

To learn more about bringing Earth Share to your workplace, call Trudy at 503.223.9015 or email her at trudy at earthshare-oregon dot org.

For more information on Earth Share of Oregon visit their website.