Suggestions
for Creative and Innovative Benefits in the
Non-Profit
Arts World
Offering quality benefits in
a non-profit environment is challenging but yet can be very rewarding.
This environment encourages creativity and innovation. The following
ideas get a lot of bang for the buck!
Take advantage of offering
pre-tax deductions for eligible benefits:
You can deduct up
to $100 pre-tax for transportation costs, including the cost of parking
or public transportation. CTA/RTA will even sell fare cards directly
to your organization
Provide basic health
insurance including Vision and Prescription coverage
Provide dental insurance
options
Develop staff events that
show that you care about your employees and their well-being:
Invest in a well
structured Orientation Program which highlights the advantages of working
for an arts organization
A Health Fair can
be a very affordable, fun event. Vendors will usually come free
of charge. Health insurance companies often offer complimentary
Health Fair displays
Recognize your staff
for years of service, attendance, etc at a special event or with a unique
gift
Provide conveniences at
work that don’t cost you anything (or are very low cost):
Your Mailroom can
sell stamps and help employees with personal packages
Allow employees
access to continuing education opportunities free of charge or at a
discounted rate
Offer free membership
or complimentary tickets to staff and families
Sponsor on site
fitness classes-you may not be able to afford an onsite fitness center,
but you can offer an aerobics class once a week
Partner with local or national
companies that are willing to offer discounts or special deals:
Negotiate discounts
to local child care providers
Offer discounts
on Cellular phone contracts
Offer discounts
on insurance (auto, renters, homeowners)
Partner with local
financial institutions to offer free checking and direct deposit
Keep up to date on
“Cutting Edge” Benefits:
Consider a pre-paid
legal plan
Explore offering
Long Term Care insurance
Implement pet insurance
Take Advantage of local,
city and state programs:
Explore the Kid
Care Rebate Plan
Provide information
on the Earned Income Credit to eligible employees
Sponsor a Section
529 Plan like Bright Start College Savings Plan
Provide a website
link to www.chicagokidstart.org, which provides resources for child
care, activities and internships for children