Ohio Environmental Council

I first encountered the OEC while I was doing organizing with the National Wildlife Federation and was so impressed that I sought an internship with the organization the following summer. Throughout my experience it was obvious to me that everyone working for the organization has a genuine passion for environmental advocacy. This was true on all levels, from the interns to the environmental lawyers to the in-house lobbyist. Additionally, I really appreciated how the organization not only worked to organize groups and coalitions, but frequently met with individuals who felt frustrated by environmental abuses going on around them and needed help voicing their concerns. On a personal level, the organization helped to foster my personal interests in environmental activism and helped train me in how to be effective. I would definitely recommend this nonprofit to anyone looking to make a difference in their community.

I was introduced to the OEC through the Grandview Chamber of Commerce. I have been a member/volunteer/supporter for the past four years. This is an organization that I feel both uses its resources wisely and focuses on its mission well. It is clear to me that the people who work for the OEC are passionate and dedicated to their work. Staffers also exhibit the wonderful quality of being easy to communicate with and efficient! Most importantly, I feel confident that the OEC is an effective watchdog in Ohio, paying attention to all those issues that I may miss, working to keep Ohio's environment, and my home state, healthy.

I became aware of the OEC some years ago because I kept seeing it referenced in media coverage of the Ohio environmental issues of concern to me. I came to know OEC as a champion of environmental causes, and one that works in a most practical, efficient manner. Whether it's doing solid research, educating Ohio's policymakers about the steps that must be taken to protect our land, water and resources, or taking legal action when needed, the OEC is an effective advocate for the environment. OEC uses its own resources wisely; I am confident that the monthly contributions I make to the organization will be well-utilized and have the maximum impact. I am proud to be a member.

I am an intern at the Ohio Environmental Council and I believe they are doing great work that is necessary to the well being of Ohio's environment. I first considered myself a skeptic when it came to the environment and its many issues, but having worked among the staff at the OEC, I can see that everything they do is integral to the improvement of Ohio's land, air, and water.

I was first introduced to the Ohio Environmental Council while researching for Central Ohio organizations to volunteer for. In my search, I found that the OEC's reputation was unmatched in the environmental community, and I soon became a student member. I was given an opportunity to volunteer for the Earth Day celebration at the Franklin Park Conservatory. I worked with other volunteers and OEC staff members for this event. Each person I worked with had so much knowledge and passion about what they were talking about to people that came up to the table, and I know from the conversations that I witnessed that each person walked away with respect for the OEC and their efforts in Ohio. Months later, I became an intern for the Development Department. The staff's professionalism, efficiency and motivation was so impressive to me when I began work at the office, and it has not wavered since. They have a true commitment to the mission of the organization, and it takes first place in everything that they do. Through my experience, I have talked to staff members, Board members, current and former volunteers, donors and supporters. All of these people share an immense respect and appreciation for Ohio's environment, this organization, and their supporters. This is why the OEC is successful and will sustain their success. If you are someone that is looking to become involved with an organization that makes a real impact, I highly suggest that you look into the Ohio Environmental Council and the work that they are doing.

I have been volunteering with the Development Department at the OEC for several months now, and am glad to say that I have witnessed firsthand the staff's passion for and efficacy at communicating the needs of Ohio's environment. Having worked with several other non-profit organizations in the past, I can safely say that this organization would be most likely to successfully solicit money from me. While many groups like the OEC have missions that are laudable and deserving of funding, I know that this organization will use donations efficiently, and will obtain results. The high level of organization, clear knowledge of and commitment to conservation goals by all staff, and long record of measurable impacts on Ohio's environment make the OEC a fabulous, and reliable, candidate for your charitable donations. In addition to their clear commitment to improving the environment, all of the staff here are passionate about maintaining rewarding personal relationships with the OEC's supporters. If, after researching the accounts of all that the OEC has done and is doing, you are still unsure about donating, call their office. I guarantee that someone would be more than happy to speak with you and address your concerns. You will not be disappointed.

I have been working as a marketing and communications intern at the OEC for the past few months, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about the organization. The volunteers, Board members, staff, and fellow interns are all fully committed to furthering the OEC’s mission to secure the healthiest air, land, and water for all Ohioans. The OEC constantly interacts with legislative and lawmaking bodies to advocate for our environment and do what’s absolutely necessary to fight for our generation, as well as future generations rights to a healthy environment. On that note, I was taken aback by the amount of effort, energy, and dedication the OEC’s staff, volunteers, and Board members put forth at this year’s Lobby Day, both before and during the event.

Also, I had the unique opportunity to travel with OEC’s Jack Shaner to Malabar State Farm Park for a press event dealing with the current issues surrounding fracking in Ohio State Park’s; his passion for environmental advocacy and his great desire to improve Ohio’s environment are both overwhelming and inspiring. Another event I worked at with the organization, The Earth Day Celebration at Franklin Park Conservatory, demonstrated to me how OEC gathers so many volunteers, and why so many volunteers return to work with the OEC. The organization shows such great appreciation to all those who are willing to not only help Ohio’s environment, but who are also eager to contribute to the OEC’s success. Overall, if you are someone who is “green-minded,” and is looking to get involved; I would highly suggest looking into the OEC and the work they do.

I have been familiar with the work of the OEC for the last year and have been directly involved in OEC’s work since March 2011 as a volunteer. I decided to join OEC and volunteer my time after seeing OEC’s strong presence and impact in Ohio’s court system, legislature and community. OEC is Ohio’s foremost advocate for a healthy and sustainable environment. OEC takes a comprehensive approach and advocates on all environmental issues including issues in air, water and land.

Working with OEC first-hand I have come to understand why OEC is so successful and why it is a sustainable organization. OEC is managed exceptionally well by a highly qualified and dedicated Board of Directors and staff. Furthermore, they have a high level of fiscal responsibility, which is illustrated by OEC’s four star rating from Charity Navigator (the highest rating an organization can receive). OEC has also established strong partnerships with over 100 organizations as well as 100 business supporters. For these reasons, OEC is positioned well to be successful and sustainable.

In addition to OEC’s advocacy in the courts and legislature, OEC engages in a variety of activities throughout the year to educate and mobilize Ohio’s citizens. Activities include, the Green Screen Series, Vernal Pool workshops, the annual Green Gala, Legislative Action Alerts/Calls to Action, Environmental Lobby Day, newsletters, fact sheets, newspaper editorials, as well as giving a numerous presentations around the state to different community groups.

Working directly with OEC I have come to appreciate the organization even more. It is truly an impressive organization that is passionate about their various causes and works tirelessly to secure a healthy environment throughout all of Ohio.

I started volunteering for the OEC two months ago and felt really lucky to be part of the great team! The staff are dedicated to their work, showing professional expertise in their respective area, no matter administration, legislation, or advocacy. I feel motivated in such dynamic atmosphere. It makes everything more efficient.

The Ohio Environmental Council is the premier environmental organization for the state, because it brings together so many different people and groups to insure the health of Ohio and its environment. This 40-year old group is well-respected by foundations, government agencies, industries, legislators and others. Importantly, the Ohio Environmental Council uses funds wisely and effectively, as demonstrated by the highest rating given by Charity Navigator.

I've been volunteering for The Ohio Environmental Council since last August and I have to say this is a really great organization! They are so passionate about keeping Ohio's air, land and water safe. The amazing accomplishments the OEC has made are extremely important to Ohio's environment and I will forever support the OEC!