Susquehanna University’s environmental education outreach program ROOTed (Real-World Observation, Outreach and Transformation in Education) has been approved by the state Department of Community and Economic Development as an Educational Improvement Organization. 

As an Educational Improvement Organization, ROOTed qualifies for funding through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program, which allows businesses to earn tax credits by making donations to EITC-approved programs. 

Credits include 75% of the gift or 90% with a two-year commitment, up to $750,000 per year. 

“We will work with regional businesses to identify giving opportunities that align with their community impact goals,” said Ann Czeponis, director of environmental education and internships at Susquehanna’s CEER Field Station. “Business donations will directly support hands-on environmental education for K-12 students as delivered through Susquehanna’s ROOTed program.” 

Supporting ROOTed, a comprehensive, place-based environmental education program designed to enhance the academic experience of K-12 school students across Central Pennsylvania, will: 

• Expand learning opportunities at Susquehanna’s CEER Field Station and Freshwater Research Institute. 

• Provide educational programming to support school district learning goals, with particular attention to ensuring access for underserved communities. 

• Support paid internships for Susquehanna University students who deliver outreach in local school and community settings. 

• Grow programs like EELS (Environmental Education Leadership for Students) that train high schoolers to teach younger peers about sustainability. 

Businesses eligible to participate in the EITC program include those that are authorized to do business in Pennsylvania and are subject to one or more of the following taxes: personal income, capital stock/foreign franchise, corporate net income, bank shares, insurance premium tax, title insurance & trust company shares, mutual thrift, malt beverage and surplus lines.