DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS (July 11, 2001) -The Northeastern Illinois Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) presented the ASSE Foundation (ASSEF) with a $200.00 check to advance safety and health development and research and education in the public interest.

" Our chapter has been successful in past fund raising activities," said chapter treasurer Elizabeth Cunningham. "We have always believed that the proper use of these funds is to raise public safety awareness, and to help to advance the safety profession in general. We feel the ASSE Foundation does an excellent job in both areas, and are always happy to help out in this regard."

Funding for the Foundation comes from corporations and ASSE members-individual and through chapters countrywide. It was reported at ASSE's recent annual Professional Development Conference that the total number of ASSE members supporting the Foundation has increased by 25 percent over the past four years.

The increase in support of the Foundation comes at a critical time. Federal agencies such as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are reporting a drop in the number of students entering the field of occupational safety and health while the need for the expertise is on the rise nationally and internationally.

Through its programs the ASSEF is committed to ensuring the future of the occupational safety and health profession by providing financial resources to individuals and organizations. Each year the Foundation awards funds for applied safety research, scholarships, fellowships, internships and professional development.

Founded in 1911, ASSE is the oldest and largest professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property, and the environment. Its 32,000 members manage, supervise, and consult on safety, health, and environmental issues in industry, insurance, government and education. www.asse.org.