Peoples Gas is committed to building strong relationships with its customers, business partners, investors and employees. That commitment also extends into the community to build and sustain vibrant and healthy communities for the future.
Our corporate contributions program is an integral part of the community. Contributions cover a broad range of activities, including community assistance programs, support for educational needs, neighborhood development, environmental awareness, and many other programs to ensure healthy and safe communities. In addition to financial contributions, Peoples Gas employees also volunteer more than 5,000 hours annually to community programs.
Contributions are made in unrestricted or program-directed grants to organizations located in the Peoples Gas service territory. To qualify, the following items will be evaluated:
Organizational background
IRS tax-exempt status
Community benefits
Community support
Strength of the agency's leadership
Financial stability of the organization
Contributions are not made to:
Individuals
Organizations that discriminate for any reason, including race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, national origin or sexual orientation
Political campaigns or organizations whose mission is to influence legislation
Individual elementary and secondary schools
Religious organizations seeking to further a denominational or sectarian purpose
A one-page cover letter identifying the organization, mailing address, name and telephone number of a contact person, the purpose of the request and the specific dollar amount requested.
A brief narrative (no more than three pages) describing the background and the objectives of the program/projects that fit Peoples Gas interests.
A current-year operating budget, showing planned expenses and income sources, a project budget (if applicable) and a list of funds raised, identifying sources and amounts.
The organization's audited financial statement for the most recent fiscal year.
Chicago-area corporate and foundation contributions and the amount each gave in the current and previous fiscal year.
A current IRS letter confirming the organization as being tax-exempt under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Code and its standing as a body described in Sections 170(c)(2), 2055(a)(3) and 2532(a)(2) of the code.
The organization's governing board members and their professional affiliations.
Peoples Gas will accept, but does not require, the Chicago Area Grant Application Form. If an applicant uses this form, the attachments described above are still required.
Manager, Corporate Contributions
Peoples Gas
130 East Randolph Drive Chicago, IL 60601
Phone: 312-240-7516
Proposal Review
The corporate contributions staff reviews the requests for grants. The process includes an evaluation of audited financial statements, budgets, board makeup and participation and, in many instances, a site visit. This information is then evaluated in context with the company's overall contribution policies.
All properly documented requests conforming to the guidelines will be considered. A letter will be sent to you informing you about the decision. Due to funding limitations and the large number of requests submitted, some worthy programs may not receive corporate support.
