Frequently Asked Questions
 
 

What is the vision of ECS?
ECS makes a difference by helping individuals and families with multiple needs overcome the impact of poverty. ECS does that by helping families stay together, helping children and youth thrive, and helping communities become stronger.

How many people does ECS serve?
ECS serves about 2000 individuals annually.

Where is ECS headquartered?
Since 1904, ECS has been headquartered at historic Old St. Paul’s Church, located at 225 S. Third Street in Philadelphia. Constructed in 1761, the building was renovated in 1986 to preserve its historic character while serving the needs of ECS employees and program participants.

Is ECS a national organization?
No. Locally founded in 1870, it remains local. There are organizations with similar names located in other areas of the US, but these are independent.

How many are on staff at ECS?
ECS has about 175 including full and part-time employees.

What is the ECS Operating Budget?
The Fiscal Year 2008 budget was nearly $10 million.

Where does the funding for ECS programs come from?
The funding mix varies by program but overall, 52% of the budget comes from grants and government contracts, 29% of the budget comes from an endowment that has grown through bequests and other planned gifts made over nearly 140 years. About 19% of the budget, or almost $1.8 million, must be raised each year from private sources such as parishes, organizations, and individuals.

How much does ECS spend on fundraising and overhead?
Over 80 cents of every dollar spent go to direct services. 15% of the budget is spent on overhead/operations; 5% on fundraising.

What is the value of the ECS endowment?
Our endowment was valued at $55 million as of June 2007. Withdrawals based on an approved spending rule (percentage of the endowment’s previous 13-quarter rolling average) cover ECS’s operating overhead and sustain vital programs. This means that every dollar contributed to ECS goes directly to services helping people in need.

Who does ECS serve?
The demographics of ECS clients reflect the communities where ECS is at work. The programs of ECS are open to all qualified persons, without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, sexual orientation, disability, economic status, limited English proficiency, gender identity, or national origin. The ECS client population is ethnically made up of about 74% African American, 12% Latino/a, 10% Caucasian, 3% biracial or other and 1% Asian.

My parish makes an annual gift to ECS. Why should I also give?
ECS provides the opportunity for Episcopalians in the Diocese of Pennsylvania to exercise their baptismal calling to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Your gift to ECS helps families stay together, children and youth thrive, and communities grow stronger.

I give to United Way. Can I designate my United Way gift to ECS?
Yes, simply check designation code #00019 when you make a pledge to United Way.

How can I help?
You can support ECS through a financial gift Volunteer as an individual or with a group. Learn more here.

 


   
EPISCOPAL COMMUNITY SERVICES • 225 S. THIRD ST. • PHILADELPHIA, PA • 19106 • TEL: 215.351.1400
©2006 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED