How It Works:
Each calendar year, ITE hosts 8-12 fundraising events for Democratic candidates organizations, either in person or virtually. Members pledge $3,000 per year in support of some or all of these events; first-time members commit to $1,500 per year. (Once your annual commitment is met, fundraising events cost $500 each.) ITE members choose which candidates and organizations they prefer to support.
All fundraising donations are made directly to candidates and organizations through online payments or checks. No money flows through ITE, except annual dues of $150.
Support ITE's operations, event hosting, and member communications. (Dues are not tax deductible, as ITE is a 501(c)(4) social welfare nonprofit corporation)
Pay Membership Dues Here:
Credit Card: [Credit Card Payment Link]
Zelle: info@investtoelectil.com
Check: Payable to Invest To Elect Illinois
Mail to: Invest To Elect Illinois, C/O Andrea Bechtel, 421 Adams Ave, Glencoe IL 60022
Exclusive Access to Democratic Leaders
• 8-12 annual fundraising events with federal and statewide candidates in tough races
• Small group meetings with elected officials
• Electing Women Alliance monthly calls with members of Congress
Strategic Political Investment
• Research-backed candidate selection by our Investment Strategy Committee
• High-impact races where your donations make the biggest difference
• Federal candidates (U.S. Senate and U.S. House races)Statewide candidates (Governors, Supreme Court justices, state Attorneys General)
• Grassroots organizations in battleground states
• New media
Flexible Participation
• Choose your candidates - donate to candidates and organizations that align with your priorities
• Year-round giving - meet your commitment throughout the calendar year
• Reduced event fees - once you meet your annual commitment, attend future events for $500 each
Community & Leadership
• Committee participation opportunities (Investment Strategy, Events, Communications, Civic Action, Membership)
• Guest privileges - invite friends to events ($250 per person, young people under age 35 $100)
• Networking with 120+ politically engaged Chicago women
• Private Facebook group for political discussions
How We Keep Members Informed:
• Biweekly newsletter with political updates, candidate spotlights, and event announcements
• Event invitations sent via email for both paid Fundraising Events and free Educational and Social events. educational sessions
• Private Facebook group for member political updates and member discussions and updates
• Bluesky social media for broader political news and advocacy
• Personal outreach from Steering Committee members for major events
Annual Political Giving Commitment:
• Donate minimum $3,000 per calendar year ($1,500 for first-year members) to ITE-hosted candidates and organizations
• Use invitation event links or check-writing instructions for direct donations to campaigns
Event Participation:
• RSVP to each ITE event invitation (including regrets)
• Meet minimum investment for attended events (typically $1,000 for candidates, $500 for organizations)
• Support ITE operations through $150 annual membership dues
Community Engagement:
• Consider joining an ITE committee to help guide our strategy and operations
• Participate in member communications and social media