It's up to YOU

In May 2011, Shell launched their new FuellingChange program where Canadians have six months to vote for their favourite  environmental projects to receive 25K, 50K or 100K from Shell Canada. 

In total, Shell grants $2 million annually to Canadian environmental organizations for programs that improve Canada's land, air and water. Shell also gives 10K to every participating organization if they don't receive one of the major grants. The FuellingChange program differs from other CSR programs as it allows Canadians to make decisions and vote on where they want Shell's funding to go. 

The 54 organizations participating in the program are found online at www.fuellingchange.com. 

Anyone in Canada can sign up for free to have a say and to vote for his or her favourite project. Site users sign up for a username and password and are then eligible to cast their votes. First time site users also gain 10 bonus votes for signing up.

Canadians can earn votes by purchasing Shell fuel products. Anything from magazines, gum, to fuel are eligible for votes. During special occasions in Canada, such as Canada Day or Earth Day, Shell commonly gives out 50 bonus votes to account holders. 

I think Shell is doing an excellent job with this program because even if environmental organizations don't receive one of the major grants, they are still receiving 10K, gaining awareness and strengthening their community by their efforts. 

The online voting is engaging and fun, especially when you are rooting for an organization located near your own community. It will be exciting to see how the organizations can make a difference with the funding they receive.  One of my favourite past programs is "Turning Tides for Turtles,"a recovery program for turtles at the Toronto Zoo. Click here to check it out. 

-JS