San Jose Mercury News, 111 Ellis St, San Francisco, CA 94102, US

EarthShare California coordinates workplace giving for over eighty carefully selected environmental charities. Part of the national Earth Share network, EarthShare California offers business partners the opportunity to connect with the most respected organizations, offering solutions to environmental business questions, volunteer opportunities and networking. Our member organizations have been instrumental in maintaining the California landscape, and many have influenced eco-friendly legislation, including the tax credit for energy efficient vehicles.EarthShare California ( ESCA ) was formed in 1982 as a coalition of twelve environmental programs working together to raise needed funds through workplace fundraising campaigns. The coalition broke new ground in outreach, education, and fund development strategies. ESCA quickly established itself as a leading workplace fundraising federation in the United States. The concept of an environmental coalition to raise funds in the workplace subsequently expanded to other states and regions. Now representing over 80 diverse environmental groups, ESCA raised nearly $2 Million in 2006 from individuals in 130 public and private sector workplaces. Since its inception, it is estimated that ESCA has raised more than $20 million for the environment. ESCA is today the largest local workplace solicitation organization in the country raising funds on behalf of the environment.