Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

MediumBullet The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public Inspection
A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 10-01-2010 and ending 09-30-2011
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Doing Business As
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
20 NORTH MICHIGAN NO 300
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
CHICAGO, IL60602
D Employer identification number

36-3361312
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 6,244,376
F Name and address of principal officer:
ZENA NAIDITCH
20 NORTH MICHIGAN NO 300
CHICAGO,IL60602
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
WWW.EQUIPFOREQUALITY.ORG
H(a)
Is this a group return for
affiliates?
H(b)
Are all affiliates included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:
 
L Year of formation: 1985
M State of legal domicile: IL
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: ADVANCE THE HUMAN & CIVIL RIGHTS OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN ILLINOIS.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a) .... 3 10
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .... 4 10
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2010 (Part V, line 2a) ... 5 67
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .... 6 160
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 .. 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 .. 7b 0
Revenues; Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 5,114,527 5,776,727
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 362,479 372,846
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 637 1,419
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 6,127 -5,726
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)................... 5,483,770 6,145,266
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )... 0 0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4) .... 0 0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 4,114,820 4,039,921
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e).... 0 0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet232,446    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f).... 1,321,666 1,258,921
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 5,436,486 5,298,842
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12...... 47,284 846,424
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............ 1,419,409 2,776,230
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............ 1,103,270 1,613,667
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20 ..... 316,139 1,162,563
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title.
Paid Preparer's Use Only Preparer's
signatureBig Right Arrow 		Date
right pointing bullet image Preparer’s taxpayer identification number
(see instructions)
Firm’s name (or yours
if self-employed),
address, and ZIP + 4Big Right Arrow




 		EIN right pointing bullet image
Phone no. right pointing bullet image
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? (see instructions) .........
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III . . . . . . . . . .
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: ADVANCE THE HUMAN & CIVIL RIGHTS OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES IN ILLINOIS. ADMINISTER FEDERALLY MANDATED PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEM FOR STATE; EXERCISE STATUTORY POWERS, AND SERVE AS LEGAL ADVOCATE AND INDEPENDENT WATCHDOG OVER PUBLIC & PRIVATE SECTORS.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ....................
If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? ..........................
If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the exempt purpose achievements for each of the organization’s three largest program services by expenses.
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 1,246,455 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 181,664 )
PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEM FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIESIN THE MID-1970'S, CONGRESS ESTABLISHED A UNIQUE, INNOVATIVE, EXPERIMENTAL INITIATIVE TO SAFEGUARD THE RIGHTS OF PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES. UNDER THIS PROGRAM, EACH GOVERNOR WAS EMPOWERED TO DESIGNATE ONE INDEPENDENT ORGANIZATION TO SERVE AS A LEGAL ADVOCATE AND WATCHDOG FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES IN THE STATE. IN THIS ROLE, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY PROVIDES SELF-ADVOCACY ASSISTANCE AND LEGAL SERVICES TO REMEDY INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS AND PURSUES SYSTEMS-CHANGE INITIATIVES TO BENEFIT THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY. THESE INITIATIVES INCLUDE FACILITY MONITORING, SYSTEMS LITIGATION TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY LIVING, PUBLIC POLICY ADVOCACY, TRAINING ON DISABILITY RIGHTS, AND OTHER SOCIAL CHANGE STRATEGIES.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 534,381 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 38,900 )
PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEM FOR INDIVIDUAL RIGHTSFOLLOWING ADOPTION OF THE ADA, THE LANDMARK FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAW FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, CONGRESS RECOGNIZED THAT MOST INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES WOULD NOT HAVE ACCESS TO LEGAL SERVICES TO ENFORCE THEIR ADA RIGHTS. THUS, IN THE EARLY 1990S, CONGRESS ONCE AGAIN EXPANDED THE ROLE AND AUTHORITY OF THE STATE P&A SYSTEMS TO EMPOWER THEM TO ADVOCATE FOR THE RIGHTS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH PHYSICAL AND OTHER DISABILITIES (BESIDES DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AND MENTAL ILLNESS) WHO ARE EXPERIENCING DISCRIMINATION AND OTHER RIGHTS VIOLATIONS. UNDER THIS NEW P&A INITIATIVE, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY OPENED ITS DOORS TO INDIVIDUALS WITH ALL TYPES OF DISABILITIES (E.G., MOBILITY, LEARNING, SENSORY, AND OTHERS), WITH A FOCUS ON PROMOTING ACCESS AND CHALLENGING DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES PROHIBITED UNDER THE ADA.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 987,961 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 45,342 )
PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEM FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL ILLNESSIN RESPONSE TO ALARMING FINDINGS OF WIDESPREAD ABUSE AND NEGLECT AND FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN STATE PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITALS AND OTHER FACILITIES THAT CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS ACROSS THE COUNTRY HAD DOCUMENTED, IN THE MID-1980S CONGRESS EXPANDED THE ROLE OF THE INDEPENDENT, STATE-LEVEL PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEMS TO INCLUDE PEOPLE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL ILLNESSES. WITH THIS EXPANDED ROLE AND AUTHORITY, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY MONITORS THE USE OF RESTRAINT AND SECLUSION; ASSESSES THE QUALITY OF STATE-CONDUCTED ABUSE INVESTIGATIONS; ENSURES THAT TREATMENT MEETS QUALITY STANDARDS; AND CALLS FOR REFORMS TO PROMOTE EMPLOYMENT, SELF-DETERMINATION, COMMUNITY LIVING, AND OTHER RIGHTS UNDER THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA).
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 1,298,934 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 109,274 )
OTHER PROGRAMS THAT SUPPORT LEGAL ADVOCACY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES AND OTHER MISSION-RELATED ACTIVITIES.
4d Other program services. (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 1,298,934 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 109,274 )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet$ 4,067,731
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? Click to see attachment........
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part IClick to see attachment..........
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part IIClick to see attachment.........................
4
Yes
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part III........................
5
 
 
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts where donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete
Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment.......................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment....................
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment...................
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in term, permanent,or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII.Click to see attachment
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII.Click to see attachment
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX.Click to see attachment
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11e
Yes
 
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11f
Yes
 
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII Click to see attachment
12a
Yes
 
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, and program service activities outside the United States? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part I
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........
18
Yes
 
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....
20a
 
No
b
Did the organization attach its audited financial statement to this return? Note: All Form 990 filers that operate one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements. .....
20b
 
 
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................ Click to see attachment
23
Yes
 
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................
25b
 
No
26
Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II...........................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor, or a grant selection committee member, or to a person related to such an individual? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III...............
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV .........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV...................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV..
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1.....................
34
 
No
35
Is any related organization a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? .....
35
 
No
a
Did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V . . . . . . . . . .
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......
1a
23
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................
2a
67
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........
6a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................
7a
Yes
 
b
If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....
7b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................
7c
 
No
d
If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................
7e
 
 
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..
7f
 
 
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................
8
 
 
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........
9a
 
 
b
Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them.) ........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.
13b
 
c
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
 
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI . . . . . . . . . .
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year ..............
1a
10
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................
1b
10
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? ..
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Does the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
 
No
7a
Does the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who may elect one or more members of the governing body? .........................
7a
 
No
b
Are any decisions of the governing body subject to approval by members, stockholders, or other persons? ..
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .........................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ............
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Does the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” does the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with those of the organization? ....
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....
12a
Does the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Are officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ...........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Does the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this is done ....................
12c
Yes
 
13
Does the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Does the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes" to line a or b, describe the process in Schedule O. (See instructions.)
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has the organization adopted a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and taken steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
IL
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you make these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public.
20
State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet
JAMES MCMILLAN CFO
20 N MICHIGAN AVE SUITE 300
CHICAGO,IL60602
(312) 895-7332
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII . . . . . . . . . .
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (check all that apply) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;
(1) VIRGINIA FREDERICK
LIFETIME DIRECTOR
 0.00 X           0 0 0
(2) DUANE C QUAINI
CHAIRPERSON
 7.00 X           0 0 0
(3) J ERIC SCHAAL
VICE CHAIRPERSON
 1.20 X           0 0 0
(4) PAMELA A HANSEN
TREASURER
 .80 X           0 0 0
(5) PATRICK H HUGHES JR
SECRETARY
 1.20 X           0 0 0
(6) KAREN GATSIS ANDERSON
DIRECTOR
 1.40 X           0 0 0
(7) JEANNINE M CORDERO
DIRECTOR
 1.50 X           0 0 0
(8) MICHAEL FOGEL
DIRECTOR
 5.50 X           0 0 0
(9) FRED M FRIEDMAN
DIRECTOR
 1.70 X           0 0 0
(10) JOHN GROSSBART
DIRECTOR
 .50 X           0 0 0
(11) TYLER D MCHALEY
DIRECTOR
 .50 X           0 0 0
(12) ZENA NAIDITCH-SCH 0 FOR MORE DETAIL
FOUNDER, PRESIDENT & CEO
 41.40     X       189,728 0 19,049
(13) JAMES MCMILLAN
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
 41.30     X       102,145 0 11,257
(14) BARRY TAYLOR
VICE PRESIDENT
 46.10         X   118,151 0 13,894
(15) DEBORAH KENNEDY
VICE PRESIDENT
 41.10         X   101,191 0 17,955




Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (check all that apply) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............MediumBullet 511,215 0 62,155
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 in reportable compensation from the organizationMediumBullet4
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................
4
Yes
 
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 in compensation from the organization MediumBullet0
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512, 513, or 514
Contributions, gifts, grants and other similar amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues....1b  
c Fundraising events....1c 65,932
d Related organizations...1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e 3,932,833
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and
similar amounts not included above1f 		1,777,962
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$  
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 5,776,727
Program Service Revenue Business Code
2a PADD PROGRAM INCOME 541,100 181,664 181,664    
b PAAT PROGRAM INCOME 541,100 75,198 75,198    
c PAIMI PROGRAM INCOME 541,100 45,342 45,342    
d PAIR PROGRAM INCOME 541,100 38,900 38,900    
e PABSS PROGRAM INCOME 541,100 7,998 7,998    
f All other program service revenue . 23,744 23,744    
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f........MediumBullet 372,846
Other Revenue 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest
and other similar amounts).....MediumBullet 1,419     1,419
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..MediumBullet        
5 Royalties............MediumBullet        
(i) Real (ii) Personal
6a Gross Rents    
b Less: rental expenses    
c Rental income or (loss)    
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet        
(i) Securities (ii) Other
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory    
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses    
c Gain or (loss)    
d Net gain or (loss)..........MediumBullet        
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including
$ 65,932
of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
a 91,050
b Less: direct expenses ...b 99,110
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet -8,060   -8,060
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances .
a  
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b  
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet        
Miscellaneous Revenue Business Code
11a MISCELLANEOUS INCOME 900,099 2,334 2,334    
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......MediumBullet 2,334
12 Total revenue. See Instructions....MediumBullet 6,145,266 375,180 0 -6,641
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the U.S. See Part IV, line 21    
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the U.S. See Part IV, line 22    
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the U.S. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16    
4 Benefits paid to or for members    
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 346,441 105,586 201,953 38,902
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) ....        
7 Other salaries and wages 2,847,473 2,347,574 385,912 113,987
8 Pension plan contributions (include section 401(k) and section 403(b) employer contributions) ....        
9 Other employee benefits ....... 614,174 511,783 82,684 19,707
10 Payroll taxes ........... 231,833 177,656 43,059 11,118
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ......        
b Legal .........        
c Accounting ...........        
d Lobbying ...........        
e Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17..    
f Investment management fees ......        
g Other .......... 96,778 53,084 39,369 4,325
12 Advertising and promotion ....        
13 Office expenses ....... 64,122 46,072 14,132 3,918
14 Information technology ......        
15 Royalties ..        
16 Occupancy ........... 604,298 423,776 159,042 21,480
17 Travel ............ 87,474 76,585 7,967 2,922
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ......        
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 665 32 623 10
20 Interest ...........        
21 Payments to affiliates .......        
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..... 52,337 45,293 4,433 2,611
23 Insurance ..............        
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above. (Expenses grouped together and labeled miscellaneous may not exceed 5% of total expenses shown on line 25 below.)
a OTHER CONTRACTUAL 182,304 132,432 43,135 6,737
b RESOURCE & RESEARCH 115,381 101,166 9,085 5,130
c CASE RELATED EXPENSE 30,283 30,224 59 0
d DESIGN AND PRINTING 10,270 7,992 2,078 200
e
f All other expenses 15,009 8,476 5,134 1,399
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f 5,298,842 4,067,731 998,665 232,446
26 Joint costs. Check here MediumBullet if following
SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720). Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation 		       
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 11
Part X Balance Sheet
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing .......... 378,860 1 1,022,319
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ....... 114,759 2 114,791
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ......... 579,461 3 1,437,334
4 Accounts receivable, net ......... 47,729 4 1,868
5 Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   5  
6 Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net .............   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ..............   8  
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............ 131,970 9 75,574
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 385,551
b Less: accumulated depreciation. ..... 10b 313,812 114,025 10c 71,739
11 Investments—publicly traded securities ..........   11  
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ......   12  
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets .........   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 52,605 15 52,605
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 1,419,409 16 2,776,230
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses . 507,010 17 372,172
18 Grants payable ..........   18  
19 Deferred revenue .......... 388,166 19 1,006,471
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities ..........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D..   21  
22 Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key
employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..........   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ....   24  
25 Other liabilities. Complete Part X of Schedule D..... 208,094 25 235,024
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..... 1,103,270 26 1,613,667
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets ..... 82,991 27 99,668
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ..... 233,148 28 1,062,895
29 Permanently restricted net assets .....   29  
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ..... 316,139 33 1,162,563
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ..... 1,419,409 34 2,776,230
Form 990 (2010)
Form 990 (2010)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI . . . . . . . . . .
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) . . .
1
6,145,266
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) . . . . .
2
5,298,842
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 . . . .
3
846,424
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) . .
4
316,139
5
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) . . . .
5
0
6
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) . . . . . .
6
1,162,563
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII . . . . . . . . . .
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?..
2a
 
No
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........
2b
Yes
 
c
If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant?
If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O............................
2c
Yes
 
d
If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................
3a
Yes
 
b
If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..
3b
Yes
 
Form 990 (2010)
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support

Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section
4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrow See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
section 170(b)(1)(A)(iv). (Complete Part II.)
6
7
8
9
receipts from activities related to its exempt functions—subject to certain exceptions, and (2) no more than 331/3% of
its support from gross investment income and unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 tax) from businesses
acquired by the organization after June 30, 1975. See section 509(a)(2). (Complete Part III.)
10
11
e
f
g
(i) a person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (ii)
Yes
No
and (iii) below, the governing body of the the supported organization? ................
11g(i)
 
 
(ii) a family member of a person described in (i) above? ......................
11g(ii)
 
 
(iii) a 35% controlled entity of a person described in (i) or (ii) above? ................
11g(iii)
 
 
h
(i)
Name of supported organization 		(ii)
EIN 		(iii)
Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above or IRC section (see instructions)) 		(iv)
Is the organization in col. (i) listed in your governing document? 		(v)
Did you notify the organization in col. (i) of your support? 		(vi)
Is the organization in col. (i) organized in the U.S.? 		(vii)
Amount of support?
Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total                  

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2006 (b) 2007 (c) 2008 (d) 2009 (e) 2010 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .... 5,151,056 5,124,085 4,723,384 5,114,527 5,814,335 25,927,387
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf.......            
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3.. 5,151,056 5,124,085 4,723,384 5,114,527 5,814,335 25,927,387
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f)..            
6 Public Support. Subtract line 5 from line 4.           25,927,387
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2006 (b) 2007 (c) 2008 (d) 2009 (e) 2010 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4.. 5,151,056 5,124,085 4,723,384 5,114,527 5,814,335 25,927,387
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources.. 6,383 6,494 2,639 637 1,419 17,572
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..            
10 Other income. (Explain in Part IV.) Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets.. 3,059 3,905 2,737 2,137 2,334 14,172
11 Total support (Add lines 7 through 10).           25,959,131
12
12
1,685,826
13
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
99.880 %
15
15
99.850 %
16a
b
17a
b
18
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2006 (b) 2007 (c) 2008 (d) 2009 (e) 2010 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .            
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......            
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513..            
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...            
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5.            
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...            
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.            
c Add lines 7a and 7b..            
8 Public Support (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)            
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2006 (b) 2007 (c) 2008 (d) 2009 (e) 2010 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6...            
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.            
c Add lines 10a and 10b.            
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.            
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part IV.)            
13 Total support (Add lines 9, 10c, 11 and 12.).            
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
 
16
16
 
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
 
18
18
 
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 4
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Supplemental Information. Complete this part to provide the explanation required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; or Part III, line 12. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
 
Explanation
 
 
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors
Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Name of organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ





Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule—
Special Rules
......................... Arrow Bullet   $    
Caution. An Organization that is not covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules does not file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2 of its Form 990, or check the box in the heading of its
Form 990-EZ, or on line 2 of its Form 990-PF, to certify that it does not meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)

Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)
Page 1 of 1 of Part I
Name of organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
  		Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I
Contributors (see Instructions)
     
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
 

     
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED  
RESTRICTED, RESTRICTED   RESTRICTED

$RESTRICTED




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Aggregate contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is
a noncash contribution.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)

Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)
Page 1 of 1 of Part II
Name of organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
  		Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part II
Noncash Property (see Instructions)
     
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions) 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)

Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)
Page 1 of 1 of Part III
Name of organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
  		Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., individual contributions to section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organizations
aggregating more than $1,000 for the year. (Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry.)
For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc.,
contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet $  
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2010)

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE C
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities

For Organizations Exempt From Income Tax Under section 501(c) and section 527
SchCMd Bullet Complete if the organization is described below.
SchCMd Bullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. SchCMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public
Inspection
If the organization answered “Yes,” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 3, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 46 (Political Campaign Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and B. Do not complete Part I-C.
Round Bullet Section 501(c) (other than section 501(c)(3)) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and C below. Do not complete Part I-B.
Round Bullet Section 527 organizations: Complete Part I-A only.
If the organization answered “Yes,” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 4, or Form 990-EZ, Part VI, line 47 (Lobbying Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)) Complete Part II-A. Do not complete Part II-B.
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-B. Do not complete Part II-A.
If the organization answered “Yes,” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 5 (Proxy Tax) or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 35a (Proxy Tax), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) organizations: Complete Part III.
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) or is a section 527 organization.

1
Provide a description of the organization's direct and indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office in Part IV.
2
Political expenditures ....................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
Volunteer hours ........................................
 

Part I-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by the organization under section 4955 .........SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by organization managers under section 4955 ......SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
If the organization incurred a section 4955 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? ..............
4a
Was a correction made? .........................................
b
If "Yes," describe in Part IV.
Part I-C
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) except section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount directly expended by the filing organization for section 527 exempt function activities SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of the filing organization's funds contributed to other organizations for section 527 exempt funtion activities ....................................SchCMd Bullet

$  
3
Total exempt function expenditures. Add lines 1 and 2. Enter here and on Form 1120-POL, line 17b..SchCMd Bullet

$  
4
Did the filing organization file Form 1120-POL for this year? ..........................
5
Enter the names, addresses and employer identification number (EIN) of all section 527 political organizations to which the filing
organization made payments. For each organization listed, enter the amount paid from the filing organization’s funds. Also enter the amount of political contributions received that were promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization, such as a separate segregated fund or a political action committee (PAC). If additional space is needed, provide information in Part IV.
(a) Name (b) Address (c) EIN (d) Amount paid from filing organization's funds. If none, enter -0-. (e) Amount of political contributions received and promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization. If none, enter -0-.










For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50084S
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 2
Part II-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
A Check
B Check
Limits on Lobbying Expenditures
(The term "expenditures" means amounts paid or incurred.) 		(a) Filing
Organization's
Totals 		(b) Affiliated Group
Totals
1a Total lobbying expenditures to influence public opinion (grass roots lobbying) ...... 432  
b Total lobbying expenditures to influence a legislative body (direct lobbying) ....... 8,205  
c Total lobbying expenditures (add lines 1a and 1b) ................... 8,637  
d Other exempt purpose expenditures ........................ 4,059,094  
e Total exempt purpose expenditures (add lines 1c and 1d) ............... 4,067,731  
f Lobbying nontaxable amount. Enter the amount from the following table in both
columns.		 353,387  
  If the amount on line 1e, column (a) or (b) is:The lobbying nontaxable amount is:    
  Not over $500,00020% of the amount on line 1e.    
  Over $500,000 but not over $1,000,000$100,000 plus 15% of the excess over $500,000.    
  Over $1,000,000 but not over $1,500,000$175,000 plus 10% of the excess over $1,000,000.    
  Over $1,500,000 but not over $17,000,000$225,000 plus 5% of the excess over $1,500,000.    
  Over $17,000,000$1,000,000.    
       
g Grassroots nontaxable amount (enter 25% of line 1f) ................. 88,347  
h Subtract line 1g from line 1a. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................ 0  
i Subtract line 1f from line 1c. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................ 0  
j If there is an amount other than zero on either line 1h or line 1i, did the organization file Form 4720 reporting
section 4911 tax for this year? ......................................

4-Year Averaging Period Under Section 501(h)
(Some organizations that made a section 501(h) election do not have to complete all of the five
columns below. See the instructions for lines 2a through 2f on page 4.)
Lobbying Expenditures During 4-Year Averaging Period
  Calendar year (or fiscal year
beginning in) 		(a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) Total
             
2a Lobbying non-taxable amount 407,778 347,428 359,187 353,387 1,467,780
             
b Lobbying ceiling amount
(150% of line 2a, column(e)) 		        2,201,670
             
c Total lobbying expenditures 15,194 21,490 58,746 8,637 104,067
             
d Grassroots non-taxable amount 101,945 86,857 89,797 88,347 366,946
             
e Grassroots ceiling amount
(150% of line 2d, column (e))		         550,419
             
f Grassroots lobbying expenditures 755 1,131 2,915 432 5,233
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010


Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 3
Part II-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and has NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
(a)
Yes
No
(b)
Amount
1
During the year, did the filing organization attempt to influence foreign, national, state or local legislation, including any attempt to influence public opinion on a legislative matter or referendum, through the use of:
a
Volunteers? .........................................
 
 
b
Paid staff or management (include compensation in expenses reported on lines 1c through 1i)? ....
 
 
c
Media advertisements? ....................................
 
 
 
d
Mailings to members, legislators, or the public? .........................
 
 
 
e
Publications, or published or broadcast statements? .......................
 
 
 
f
Grants to other organizations for lobbying purposes? .......................
 
 
 
g
Direct contact with legislators, their staffs, government officials, or a legislative body? ........
 
 
 
h
Rallies, demonstrations, seminars, conventions, speeches, lectures, or any similar means? ......
 
 
 
i
Other activities? If "Yes," describe in Part IV ..........................
 
 
 
j
Total. lines 1c through 1i ...................................
 
2a
Did the activities in line 1 cause the organization to be not described in section 501(c)(3)? .....
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred under section 4912 .................
 
c
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred by organization managers under section 4912 .....
 
d
If the filing organization incurred a section 4912 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? .......
 
 
Part III-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6).
Yes
No
1
Were substantially all (90% or more) dues received nondeductible by members? ................
1
 
 
2
Did the organization make only in-house lobbying expenditures of $2,000 or less? ................
2
 
 
3
Did the organization agree to carryover lobbying and political expenditures from the prior year? ..........
3
 
 
Part III-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6) if BOTH Part III-A, lines 1 and 2 are answered “No” OR if Part III-A, line 3 is answered “Yes”.
1
Dues, assessments and similar amounts from members .....................
1
 
2
Section 162(e) non-deductible lobbying and political expenditures (do not include amounts of political
expenses for which the section 527(f) tax was paid).
a
Current year .........................................
2a
 
b
Carryover from last year ....................................
2b
 
c
Total ...........................................
2c
 
3
Aggregate amount reported in section 6033(e)(1)(A) notices of nondeductible section 162(e) dues .
3
 
4
If notices were sent and the amount on line 2c exceeds the amount on line 3, what portion of the excess does the organization agree to carryover to the reasonable estimate of nondeductible lobbying and political expenditure next year? ................................
4
 
5
Taxable amount of lobbying and political expenditures (see instructions) ..............
5
 
Part IV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part l-A, line 1; Part l-B, line 4; Part l-C, line 5; and Part ll-B, line 1i.
Also, complete this part for any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
EXPLANATION OF OTHER LOBBYING ACTIVITIES: PART II-B, LINE 1I: EQUIP FOR EQUALITY MONITORS BILLS INTRODUCED IN THE STATE CAPITAL THAT HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE RIGHTS, SERVICE OPTIONS, AND CHOICES AND QUALITY OF LIFE OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES. PERIODICALLY, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY ALSO TAKES POSITIONS ON FEDERAL DISABILITY-RELATED LEGISLATION. EQUIP FOR EQUALITY TAKES POSITIONS ON THOSE BILLS THAT FALL WITHIN OUR PRIORITIES AND ARE MOST LIKELY TO HAVE A SIGNIFICANT POSITIVE OR NEGATIVE IMPACT IF ENACTED INTO LAW. THE ORGANIZATION ALSO DRAFTS AND SECURES PASSAGE OF LEGISLATION TO CODIFY IMPORTANT COURT VICTORIES SECURED THROUGH INDIVIDUAL OR SYSTEMIC LITIGATION, TO SECURE ADOPTION OF BEST PRACTICES, AND TO ADVANCE ITS MISSION IN OTHER WAYS. EQUIP FOR EQUALITY ALSO TAKES POSITIONS ON LEGISLATION THAT HAVE AN IMPACT ITS OWN STATUTORY ROLE, POWERS, AND FUNDING. NOTE: FIRST 501(H) ELECTION FOR THE YEAR ENDING 9/30/05.
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990EZ) 2010

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," to Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12.
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990. SchDMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .......    
2 Aggregate contributions to (during year) ...    
3 Aggregate grants from (during year) ...    
4 Aggregate value at end of year .......    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds may be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit. ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a–2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ....................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................. 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06 ........ 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during
the taxable year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and
enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? .............................
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section
170(h)(4)(B)(i) and 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? ....................................
9
In Part XIV, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116, not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of
art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education or research in furtherance of public service,
provide, in Part XIV, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116, to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art,
historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service,
provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ..............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 relating to these items:
a
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s accession and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection
items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIV.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?........
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIV and complete the following table:
Amount
c Beginning balance ................................. 1c  
d Additions during the year .............................. 1d  
e Distributions during the year ............................. 1e  
f Ending balance ................................... 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21? .....................
b
If “Yes,” explain the arrangement in Part XIV.
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current Year (b)Prior Year (c)Two Years Back (d)Three Years Back (e)Four Years Back
1a Beginning of year balance ....      
b Contributions ........      
c Investment earnings or losses ...      
d Grants or scholarships .....      
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ........ 		     
f Administrative expenses ....      
g End of year balance ......      
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the year end balance held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment: SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment: SchDMd Bullet  
c
Term endowment: SchDMd Bullet  
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations ........................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) related organizations ........................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" to 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIV the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Investments—Land, Buildings, and Equipment. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of investment (a) Cost or other basis (investment) (b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .................      
b Buildings ................        
c Leasehold improvements ............   44,330 35,464 8,866
d Equipment ................        
e Other .................   341,221 278,348 62,873
Total. Add lines 1a-1e. (Column (d) should equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).)........SchDMdBullet 71,739
Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
Other








Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment type (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value








Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value








Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet  
Part X
Other Liabilities. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of Liability (b) Amount
Federal Income Taxes  
DEFERRED RENT 235,024








Total. (Column (b) should equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet 235,024
2. Fin 48 (ASC 740) Footnote. In Part XIV, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC740).
Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Schedule D (Form 990) 2010
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets from Form 990 to Financial Statements
1 Total revenue (Form 990, Part VIII, column (A), line 12) .................... 1 6,145,266
2 Total expenses (Form 990, Part IX, column (A), line 25) ..................... 2 5,298,842
3 Excess or (deficit) for the year. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ............. 3 846,424
4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .......................... 4  
5 Donated services and use of facilities ............................. 5  
6 Investment expenses ................................... 6  
7 Prior period adjustments .................................. 7  
8 Other (Describe in Part XIV) ................................. 8  
9 Total adjustments (net). Add lines 4 - 8 ............................. 9 0
10 Excess or (deficit) for the year per financial statements. Combine lines 3 and 9 ......... 10 846,424
Part XII Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 6,244,376
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains on investments .......... 2a  
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............ 2d 99,110
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e 99,110
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 6,145,266
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV): ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c 0
5 Total Revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This should equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 6,145,266
Part XIII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ............. 1 5,397,952
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities .......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments .............. 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............ 2d 99,110
e Add lines 2a through 2d...................... 2e 99,110
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 5,298,842
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV): ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c 0
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This should equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 5,298,842
Part XIV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X; Part XI, line 8; Part XII, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XIII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
DESCRIPTION OF UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS UNDER FIN 48: PART X: THE AGENCY'S APPLICATION OF GAAPUSA REGARDING UNCERTAIN TAX POSITIONS HAD NO EFFECT ON ITS FINANCIAL POSITION AS MANAGEMENT BELIEVES THEY HAVE NO MATERIAL UNRECOGNIZED INCOME TAX BENEFITS, INCLUDING ANY POTENTIAL RISK OF LOSS OF ITS NOT-FOR-PROFIT STATUS. THE AGENCY WOULD ACCOUNT FOR ANY POTENTIAL INTEREST OR PENALTIES RELATED TO POSSIBLE FUTURE LIABILITIES FOR UNRECOGNIZED INCOME TAX BENEFITS AS INCOME TAX EXPENSE. THE AGENCY IS NOT SUBJECT TO EXAMINATION BY TAX AUTHORITIES FOR FEDERAL, STATE, OR LOCAL INCOME TAXES FOR PERIODS BEFORE 2008.
PART XII, LINE 2D - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS:   SPECIAL EVENTS EXPENSE 99,110.
PART XIII, LINE 2D - OTHER ADJUSTMENTS:   SPECIAL EVENTS EXPENSE 99,110.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2010

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE G
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information Regarding
Fundraising or Gaming Activities
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, lines 17, 18, or 19,
or if the organization entered more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrow See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I
Fundraising Activities. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 17.
1
Indicate whether the organization raised funds through any of the following activities. Check all that apply.
a e
b f
c g
d
2a
Did the organization have a written or oral agreement with any individual (including officers, directors, trustees
or key employees listed in Form 990, Part VII) or entity in connection with professional fundraising services?
b
If “Yes,” list the ten highest paid individuals or entities (fundraisers) pursuant to agreements under which the fundraiser is
to be compensated at least $5,000 by the organization. Form 990-EZ filers are not required to complete this table.
(i) Name and address of individual
or entity (fundraiser) 		(ii) Activity (iii) Did fundraiser have custody or control of contributions? (iv) Gross receipts
from activity 		(v) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
fundraiser listed in
col. (i) 		(vi) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
organization
Yes No
Total .................right arrow      
3
List all states in which the organization is registered or licensed to solicit funds or has been notified it is exempt from registration or licensing.
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50083H
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 2
Part II
Fundraising Events. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 18, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a. List events with gross receipts greater than $5,000.
(a) Event #1

DINNER AND SILENT AUCTION
(event type) 		(b) Event #2

 
(event type) 		(c) Other Events

  
(total number) 		(d) Total Events
(Add col. (a) through col. (c))
VerticalRevenue 1 Gross receipts . . . 156,982     156,982
2 Less: Charitable
contributions . . . 		65,932     65,932
3 Gross income (line 1
minus line 2) . . . 		91,050     91,050
VerticalDirectExpenses 4 Cash prizes . . .        
5 Non-cash prizes . .        
6 Rent/facility costs . . 22,310     22,310
7 Food and beverages . .        
8 Entertainment . . .        
9 Other direct expenses . 76,800     76,800
10 Direct expense summary. Add lines 4 through 9 in column (d) ........... right arrow 99,110
11 Net income summary. Combine lines 3 and 10 in column (d)............ right arrow -8,060
Part III
Gaming. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 19, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.
VerticalRevenue (a) Bingo (b) Pull tabs/Instant
bingo/progressive bingo 		(c) Other gaming (d) Total gaming (Add col. (a) through col. (c))
1 Gross revenue . . . .        
VerticalDirectExpenses 2 Cash prizes . . . .        
3 Non-cash prizes . . .        
4 Rent/facility costs . . .        
5 Other direct expenses . .        
6 Volunteer labor . . .
 
 
 
7 Direct expense summary. Add lines 2 through 5 in column (d) ........... right arrow  
8 Net gaming income summary. Combine lines 1 and 7 in column (d) .......... right arrow  
9
Enter the state(s) in which the organization operates gaming activities:
a
Is the organization licensed to operate gaming activities in each of these states? ............
b
If "No," Explain:
 
10a
Were any of the organization's gaming licenses revoked, suspended or terminated during the tax year? .....
b
If "Yes," Explain:
 
11
Does the organization operate gaming activities with nonmembers? .................
12
Is the organization a grantor, beneficiary or trustee of a trust or a member of a partnership or other entity
formed to administer charitable gaming? ...........................
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Page 3
13
Indicate the percentage of gaming activity operated in:
a
The organization's facility ......................
13a
 
b
An outside facility ........................
13b
 
14
Provide the name and address of the person who prepares the organization's gaming/special events books and records:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
15a
Does the organization have a contract with a third party from whom the organization receives gaming
revenue? ......................................
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of gaming revenue received by the organization right arrow $   and the
amount of gaming revenue retained by the third party right arrow $   .
c
If "Yes," enter name and address:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
 
 
16
Gaming manager information:
Name right arrow
Gaming manager compensation right arrow $  
Description of services provided right arrow
 
17
Mandatory distributions:
a
Is the organization required under state law to make charitable distributions from the gaming proceeds to
retain the state gaming license? ............................
b
Enter the amount of distributions required under state law distributed to other exempt organizations or spent
in the organization's own exempt activities during the tax year right arrow$  
Part IV
Complete this part to provide additional information for responses to quuestion on Schedule G (see instructions.)
Identifier ReturnReference Explanation
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Schedule J
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Compensation Information
For certain Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest
Compensated Employees
SchJMediumBullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, question 23.
SchJMediumBullet Attach to Form 990. SchJMediumBullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Part I
Questions Regarding Compensation
Yes
No
1a
Check the appropiate box(es) if the organization provided any of the following to or for a person listed in Form
990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a. Complete Part III to provide any relevant information regarding these items.
b
If any of the boxes in line 1a are checked, did the organization follow a written policy regarding payment or reimbursement orprovision of all the expenses described above? If "No," complete Part III to explain....
1b
 
 
2
Did the organization require substantiation prior to reimbursing or allowing expenses incurred by all
officers, directors, trustees, and the CEO/Executive Director, regarding the items checked in line 1a? ....
2
 
 
3
Indicate which, if any, of the following the organization uses to establish the compensation of the
organization's CEO/Executive Director. Check all that apply.
4
During the year, did any person listed in Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a with respect to the filing organization or a related organization:
a
Receive a severance payment or change-of-control payment? ...............
4a
 
No
b
Participate in, or receive payment from, a supplemental nonqualified retirement plan? ........
4b
 
No
c
Participate in, or receive payment from, an equity-based compensation arrangement? ........
4c
 
No
If "Yes" to any of lines 4a-c, list the persons and provide the applicable amounts for each item in Part III.
Only 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations only must complete lines 5-9.
5
For persons listed in form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the revenues of:
a
The organization? ...........................
5a
 
No
b
Any related organization? .........................
5b
 
No
If "Yes," to line 5a or 5b, describe in Part III.
6
For persons listed in form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization pay or accrue any
compensation contingent on the net earnings of:
a
The organization? ...........................
6a
 
No
b
Any related organization? .........................
6b
 
No
If "Yes," to line 6a or 6b, describe in Part III.
7
For persons listed in Form 990, Part VII, Section A, line 1a, did the organization provide any non-fixed
payments not described in lines 5 and 6? If "Yes," describe in Part III ............
7
 
No
8
Were any amounts reported in Form 990, Part VII, paid or accured pursuant to a contract that was
subject to the initial contract exception described in Regs. section 53.4958-4(a)(3)? If "Yes," describe
in Part III .............................
8
 
No
9
If "Yes" to line 8, did the organization also follow the rebuttable presumption procedure described in Regulations section 53.4958-6(c)? .........................
9
 
 
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990
Cat. No. 50053T
Schedule J (Form 990) 2010

Schedule J (Form 990) 2010
Page 2
Part II
Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees. Use Schedule J-1 if additional space needed.
For each individual whose compensation must be reported in Schedule J, report compensation from the organization on row (i) and from related organizations, described in the
instructions on row (ii). Do not list any individuals that are not listed on Form 990, Part VII.

Note. The sum of columns (B)(i)-(iii) must equal the applicable column (D) or column (E) amounts on Form 990, Part VII, line 1a.
(A) Name (B) Breakdown of W-2 and/or 1099-MISC compensation (C) Retirement and other deferred compensation (D) Nontaxable
benefits		 (E) Total of columns
(B)(i)-(D) 		(F) Compensation
reported in prior
Form 990 or
Form 990-EZ
(i) Base compensation (ii) Bonus & incentive compensation (iii) Other reportable compensation
(1) ZENA NAIDITCH-SCH 0 FOR MORE DETAIL (i)
(ii)		 177,462
0 		0
0 		12,266
0 		7,700
0 		11,349
0 		208,777
0 		0
0















Schedule J (Form 990) 2010

Schedule J (Form 990) 2010
Page 3
Part III
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the information, explanation, or descriptions required for Part I, lines 1a, 1b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7, and 8. Also complete this part for any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Schedule J (Form 990) 2010

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2010
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
EQUIP FOR EQUALITY
 
Employer identification number

36-3361312
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 11   THE BOARD RETAINS THE SERVICES OF AN INDEPENDENT CPA FIRM TO PREPARE AND REVIEW THE ORGANIZATION'S 990 RETURN. MANAGEMENT REVIEWS THE FORM AND THEN PRESENTS IT TO THE FINANCE COMMITTEE FOR THEIR REVIEW. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE REVIEWS THE FORM 990 WITH THE CPA FIRM AND THEN APPROVES THE FORM. MANAGEMENT THEN PROVIDES A FULL COPY TO ALL VOTING MEMBERS OF THE GOVERNING BODY FOR A PERIOD OF COMMENT AND QUESTIONS. AT THE END OF THE PERIOD, MANAGEMENT FILES THE FORM 990 WITH ALL THE APPLICABLE STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES.
  FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 12C THE ORGANIZATION ADOPTED A CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY FOR KEY EMPLOYEES IN FEBRUARY 2010. PREVIOUSLY, OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS ANNUALLY COMPLETED A CONFLICT OF INTEREST DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AS A PRECURSOR TO THEIR SERVICE TO THE ORGANIZATION. POTENTIAL CONFLICTS ARE LOGGED WITH AND MONITORED BY THE SECRETARY OF THE BOARD. EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 2010, KEY EMPLOYEES ARE NOW INCLUDED IN THIS ANNUAL PROCEDURE.
  FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION B, LINE 15 COMPENSATION OF THE PRESIDENT & CEO THE FULL BOARD OF DIRECTORS SETS THE COMPENSATION OF THE PRESIDENT AND CEO ON AN ANNUAL BASIS. THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EVALUATES THE PRESIDENT/CEO'S PERFORMANCE AND KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND OUTCOMES ACHIEVED. THE COMMITTEE ALSO COLLECTS DATA AND INFORMATION FROM NATIONAL SURVEYS AND OTHER ACCEPTED SOURCES, WHICH THEN GUIDES ITS COMPENSATION RECOMMENDATION. THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE PRESENTS THE RESULTS OF ITS PERFORMANCE REVIEW AS WELL AS ITS RESEARCH OF COMPENSATION DATA AND MAKES A RECOMMENDATION TO THE BOARD FOR CONSIDERATION. THE FULL BOARD THEN VOTES ON THE ISSUE. THE ANNUAL COMPENSATION OF OTHER OFFICERS AND KEY EMPLOYEES IS ALSO CONSIDERED ON AN ANNUAL BASIS, ALTHOUGH IT IS DEPENDENT UPON THE FINANCIAL STANDING OF THE ORGANIZATION. SOME YEARS, THE ORGANIZATION HAS NOT BEEN IN A POSITION TO GIVE A MERIT-BASED INCREASE, A COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT, OR EVEN A ONE-TIME BONUS. FROM TIME-TO-TIME, THE ORGANIZATION MAY MAKE ADJUSTMENTS IF ITS SALARY SCALES ARE INCONSISTENT WITH THE PREVAILING TRENDS, AFTER REVIEWING COMPARABLE DATA AND OTHER INFORMATION. FOR ATTORNEYS, THE CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION HAS DEVELOPED A COMPENSATION PHILOSOPHY AND GAME-PLAN TO BRING THE SALARIES OF PUBLIC INTEREST ATTORNEYS EMPLOYED BY PRIVATE, NONPROFIT LEGAL SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS INTO LINE WITH STATE AGENCY ATTORNEYS - BUT IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS PLAN HAS BEEN DETERRED BY THE DRAMATIC DOWNTURN IN THE ECONOMY. IN RECENT YEARS, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY HAS NOT PROVIDED ITS ATTORNEYS AND OTHER EMPLOYEES WITH WELL-DESERVED INCREASES IN THEIR COMPENSATION CONSISTENT WITH THEIR PERFORMANCE DUE TO THIS SITUATION. THE BOARD AND CEO PLAN TO RECTIFY THIS SITUATION AS SOON AS ECONOMIC CONDITIONS PERMIT.
  FORM 990, PART VI, SECTION C, LINE 19 THE ORGANIZATION'S GOVERNING DOCUMENTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC, AS IS ITS CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM SERVICES   AS THE PRIVATE, NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATION DESIGNATED BY THE GOVERNOR IN 1985 TO ADMINISTER THE FEDERALLY-MANDATED PROTECTION & ADVOCACY SYSTEM (P&A) FOR THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY HAS STATUTORY POWERS AND RECEIVES FUNDS FROM SEVEN DISTINCT FEDERAL P&A PROGRAMS. THE THREE LARGEST PROGRAMS PROVIDE BASE FUNDING TO SAFEGUARD THE RIGHTS OF: (1) INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (PADD), (2) PEOPLE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESS (PAIMI), AND (3) ALL OTHER INDIVIDUALS WITH A DISABILITY AS DEFINED BY THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (PAIR), RESPECTIVELY. AS THE INDEPENDENT ORGANIZATION EMPOWERED BY CONGRESS TO SAFEGUARD AND ADVANCE THE RIGHTS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH ALL TYPES OF DISABILITIES, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY RELIES ON FEDERAL PADD, PAIMI, AND PAIR AND OTHER P&A FUNDS AS A FOUNDATION FOR ITS ROLE AS THE STATE'S LEADING CROSS-DISABILITY ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION. FURTHERMORE, ITS DESIGNATION AS THE P&A SYSTEM FOR THE STATE OF ILLINOIS CARRIES WITH IT BROAD FEDERAL STATUTORY POWERS ESSENTIAL TO PERFORMING ITS PRIMARY ROLES AS A LEGAL ADVOCATE AND INDEPENDENT WATCHDOG. LEGAL POWERS INCLUDE THE RIGHT TO ENTER, UNANNOUNCED, PUBLIC AND PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS AND COMMUNITY-BASED RESIDENTIAL FACILITIES AND DAY PROGRAMS, SCHOOLS, UNLICENSED BOARD-AND-CARE FACILITIES, AND OTHER SETTINGS THAT PROVIDE CARE OR TREATMENT TO INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES; TO TALK WITH INDIVIDUALS SERVED AND STAFF; AND TO ACCESS FACILITY AND INDIVIDUAL CLINICAL RECORDS IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL AND STATE P&A LAWS. P&A AUTHORITY INCLUDES THE RIGHT TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND DEATHS AND TO EXAMINE ALL RECORDS OF INVESTIGATIONS CONDUCTED BY FACILITIES OR THE STATE. THIS AUTHORITY ENSURES THAT PADD, PAIMI, PAIR, AND OTHER P&A PROGRAMS CAN REACH OUT TO UNDERSERVED INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE ISOLATED IN SEGREGATED SETTINGS AND UNABLE TO CALL FOR HELP. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT THE MAJORITY OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES QUALIFY FOR PAIR (55.6%), WHICH REPRESENTS ONLY 16.5 % OF THE FEDERAL P&A FUNDS RECEIVED BY EQUIP FOR EQUALITY. THIS MEANS THAT WE NEED TO RAISE SUBSTANTIAL FUNDS FROM PRIVATE AND OTHER PUBLIC SOURCES TO ENSURE A FAIR AND EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION OF LIMITED LEGAL ADVOCACY SERVICES AND TO PERFORM OTHER CRITICAL P&A RESPONSIBILITIES. A LEGAL NEEDS RESEARCH STUDY CONDUCTED IN ILLINOIS FOUND THAT WHEN A LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLD INCLUDES A MEMBER WITH A DISABILITY, THEIR LEGAL NEEDS INCREASE FROM 49% TO 74% DURING A ONE-YEAR PERIOD. INTERESTINGLY, THE HIGHEST LEGAL NEED AMONG LOW-INCOME FAMILIES WAS FOR REPRESENTATION ON EDUCATION ISSUES (50% OF THESE FAMILIES NEEDED ASSISTANCE WITH SPECIAL EDUCATION), WHERE 92% OF SUCH NEEDS WENT UNMET ANNUALLY. AS THE LEGAL NEEDS STUDY DEMONSTRATES, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY DOES NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT RESOURCES TO ENSURE THAT THE LEGAL NEEDS OF LOW-INCOME INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES ARE MET. TWO YEARS AGO, WE LAUNCHED THE EQUALITY FOR KIDS CAMPAIGN TO SOLICIT CONTRIBUTIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS, LAW FIRMS, AND BUSINESSES. THESE NEW FUNDS ASSISTED US IN OUR LAUNCHING OF A NEW SPECIAL EDUCATION CLINIC TO PROVIDE CRITICAL SELF-HELP LEGAL ADVICE AND STRATEGIES AS WELL AS REPRESENTATION AT SCHOOL MEETINGS AND ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS. TO SUPPORT THE DOCUMENTED NEED FOR LEGAL SERVICES FOR STUDENTS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY ESTABLISHED A NEW PRO BONO INITIATIVE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CHICAGO'S LEADING LAW FIRMS. THESE VOLUNTEER ATTORNEYS, ALONG WITH OUR IN-HOUSE ATTORNEYS, HAVE GREATLY EXPANDED OUR CAPACITY TO ADDRESS EDUCATION-RELATED LEGAL NEEDS IN AN EFFECTIVE AND COST-EFFICIENT MANNER. HOWEVER, BECAUSE FEDERAL P&A FUNDS REMAIN FAR SMALLER THAN THE UNMET LEGAL NEEDS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES, FUND DIVERSIFICATION AND EXPANSION ARE THE BOARD'S AND CEO'S HIGHEST PRIORITY. IN ADDITION TO THE THREE LARGEST P&A PROGRAMS, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY ALSO ADMINISTERS SIMILAR PROGRAMS FOR SPECIFIC POPULATIONS OR TO ADDRESS CRITICAL ISSUES FACING THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY, AS FOLLOWS: (1) INDIVIDUALS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY (PATBI), (2) PEOPLE WHO REQUIRE ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEVICES (PAAT), (3) RECIPIENTS OF SOCIAL SECURITY SSI/DI BENEFITS WHOSE EFFORTS TO SECURE OR MAINTAIN EMPLOYMENT ARE AT RISK DUE TO DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION OR OTHER BARRIERS (PABSS), (4) INDEPENDENT MONITORING FOR THE SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION OF FACILITIES WHERE AN AGENCY IS BOTH THE EMPLOYER AND CONTROLS THE INDIVIDUALS PERSONAL FUNDS (REPRESENTATIVE PAYEE) TO ENSURE THEY ARE SAFE AND NOT BEING FINANCIALLY EXPLOITED, AND (5) ADVOCACY WITH LOCAL AND STATE ELECTION BOARDS AND OTHER ACTIVITIES TO ENSURE THAT THE REGISTRATION AND ELECTORAL PROCESS ARE ACCESSIBLE (PAVA). IN RECENT YEARS, EQUIP FOR EQUALITY HAS GREATLY DIVERSIFIED AND EXPANDED ITS FUNDING BASE AS IT HAS PURSUED CONTRIBUTIONS FROM INDIVIDUALS, LAW FIRMS, AND BUSINESSES. THESE FUNDS, ALONG WITH GRANTS PROVIDED BY LEADING PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS, HAVE ENABLED THE ORGANIZATION TO MAINTAIN ITS EXCELLENT TEAM OF STAFF AND EXPAND THE REACH AND SCOPE OF ITS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES, DESPITE DIRE FINANCIAL TIMES. THE ORGANIZATION'S REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENCE IN PROGRAM QUALITY AND ADMINISTRATION AND OPERATIONS HAS BEEN CRITICAL IN ITS SUCCESS. TODAY, OVER 77% OF EACH DOLLAR RAISED SUPPORTS PROGRAMS AND SERVICES.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2010

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version: