What We Do
TEP has a history of performing some basic fundtions for Clean Cities coalitions but is looking to add to that in the coming years. The Energy Independence Days event is just one example of what we hope to grow a portofolio of that are other efforts that help Clean Cities get their job done while helping move transportation energy change forward, quickly. Read the below sections to get a better introduction to what we do.
Umbrella 501(c)3 Operation
For those Clean Cities coalitions or other mission-related organizations that need 501(c)3 status, TEP can help. Since its inception, TEP has been offering 501(c)3 "umbrella" assistance. Nothing fancy, it simply means that by joining TEP and completing the appropriate federal forms, you can get 501(c)3 status for your organization without having to become a 501(c)3 yourself. (Section 501(c)3 is a tax law provision granting exemption from the federal income tax to non-profit organizations. Read more about what 501(c)3 status is and means here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/501(c)#501.28c.29.283.29.) Contact Peter Wolk directly to find our more about joining TEP to obtain your 501(c)3.
Annual Nonprofit IRS Form 990 Reporting
This service of TEP is an extension of the above, and you need your 501(c)3 through TEP to allow us to handle your Formm 990 reporting. Some coalitions that are part of TEP take care of their own 990 reporting while others get TEP to care of this all-important nonprofit task. For those coalitions making $25,000 or less in any one year, the reporting requirements are very simple and easy. For those making greater than $25,000, more information is required, but Peter Wolk handles the communication and requests when necessary the necessary information to take care of annual reporting. If you have questions on this topic, also contact Peter.
Other Services
This is where it starts getting fun! Although TEP's history thus far has been mostly built around offering 501(c)3 and 990 assistance, we are excited to be moving in a new direction in doing more to help coalitions achieve results. This starts with Energy Indpendence Days, but we are already working on a couple of other ideas that could be new services that TEP could offer, so watch out for new initiatives coming soon!
ENERGY INDEPENDENCE DAYS
TEP is proud to be a key partner in bringing Clean Cities coalition representatives together with their federal legislators and/or key staff members annually to talk about transportation energy change. While it is important to develop grassroots action at the local level, it is equally important for 1) legislators and their staffers to know what's going on in their districts or states, and 2) coalitions to communicate what kinds of federal action can help make change faster. Please visit our EID section to learn more about our EID work.
