Becoming a Member Organization

• provide services in Illinois;
• have 501(c)3 tax exempt status;
• have been incorporated for at least three years;
• be committed to equal employment opportunities and be in compliance with the Illinois Human Rights Act;
• demonstrate fiscal soundness; and
• not prohibit its employees from collective bargaining.

Once an organization’s membership application is approved, they pay an initiation fee ($1,000 for local groups and $1,500 for statewide organizations), the same investment our founding members made when establishing the organization. After the first year, members pay annual dues ranging from $250 to $500, depending on the size of their budget.

As a member controlled and operated federation, our member organizations are responsible for managing and operating the Community Shares of Illinois. Our bylaws provide member organizations final say in all key policy decisions. All member organizations designate a representative to Community Shares that can cast votes on behalf of the organization, including the election of the Board of Directors.

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Download Membership Application [PDF, 80K]

Member Agencies

Participating Employers

Frequently Asked Questions

Sweat Equity Program

Our History