Environmental
Federation of Oregon
P.O. Box 40333
Portland, OR 97240
(503) 223-9015
info@efo.org

EFO Member Groups Accomplishments | How to Join EFO

How Groups Join EFO

Being a member group of EFO has many benefits. At a time when public sector support is decreasing and grants are increasingly difficult to obtain, EFO can provide a stable source of funding for an organization's programs. EFO member groups also have the opportunity to share their messages with diverse audiences of Oregonians, potentially increasing their membership base and visibility within the community. Groups additionally benefit from cooperation and collaboration with other groups within Oregon's environmental community.

If you would like see a specific organization that you support become apart of EFO, feel free to have them contact us at 503-223-9015 or refer them to this page of our website to learn more about the process.

The Application Process

EFO's Board of Directors vote each December on whether or not to accept applications from new groups. If EFO's Board votes to open the application process, EFO mails out applications to organizations that have expressed interest. Organizations wishing to apply must first meet certain qualifications.

Groups must:

1. Have demonstrated commitment toward the protection and enhancement of the natural environment in the state of Oregon through one or more of the following: conservation activities, advocacy, research, education or legal action
   
   
2. Have a demonstrated history (at least two years) of programmatic responsibility and fiscal accountability
   
   
3. Be fully registered with the Attorney General and Secretary of State as a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit
   
   
4. Be governed by an active board of directors
   
   
5. Be in compliance with the Fair Employment Practices Act
   
   
6. Not be a chapter, subsidiary, or parent of any current affiliate
   
   
7. Undergo an annual audit if its revenues exceed $100,000

In addition, applying groups must submit statements detailing their specific accomplishments and program activities in their most recent fiscal year. Groups must explain how their programs and activities benefit human health and welfare, and describe how their programs have directly benefited different counties throughout the state. Organizations with national affiliations are notified that funds raised through EFO's workplace giving campaigns must be specifically used to fund their programs and activities within the state of Oregon, without exception.

After applications have been received, the Membership Committee of EFO's Board of Directors reviews the applications thoroughly and makes a recommendation to the Board based on established goals and priorities, such as whether the group adds issue or geographic diversity to the coalition. The Board of Directors evaluates the Committee's proposal and then votes on the new members.

Groups that have been accepted into EFO are required to undergo a stringent re-affiliation process on an annual basis. This is a detailed procedure, but the Board of Directors feels it is essential in order to maintain EFO's high standards.

All new applications for membership, and annual re-applications by current members are kept on file at EFO (including complete financial statements, Board and program information and other documentation) and are available for review at our office upon request.