FirstEnergy Foundation Grants $25,000 to IM Able Foundation for Community and Fitness Programs

FirstEnergy Foundation Grants $25,000 to IM Able Foundation

The FirstEnergy Foundation has made a significant donation of $25,000 to the IM Able Foundation, a non-profit organization located in Berks County, Pennsylvania. This funding is part of a larger initiative that sees the foundation award over $1 million in grants to enhance community well-being throughout the year 2025. The IM Able Foundation focuses on providing adaptive fitness programs and resources for children, veterans, and adults with disabilities. This is particularly important as it addresses the needs of those served by FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company (Met-Ed), thereby enhancing the well-being of many in the region.

John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy for Pennsylvania, expressed the organization's commitment to improving community wellness through partnerships with organizations like IM Able. "Through the FirstEnergy Foundation, we've granted over $1 million in the first half of 2025 to enhance community well-being through organizations like IM Able. The Met-Ed team is excited to volunteer with IM Able to bring their programming to life – it's all about having fun, fostering community and building confidence through engaging physical activity," Hawkins stated.

The grant specifically supports the IM Able Foundation's Operation Lead from the Front initiative. This program aims not only to provide various fitness opportunities but also addresses the transition challenges faced by military veterans as they move into civilian life. The initiative particularly seeks to counter issues related to social isolation, mental health struggles, and a loss of purpose among veterans.

Through this funding, IM Able aims to expand its adaptive and inclusive programming, ultimately benefiting 2,500 clients, both veteran and non-veteran alike. Activities covered under this initiative include a diverse array of outdoor pursuits such as skiing, fitness competitions, kayaking, rock climbing, and hiking, among others.

In addition to providing fitness opportunities, the grant will facilitate enhanced training for veterans who wish to mentor and coach individuals with disabilities. Alex A. Pilkington, CEO of IM Able Foundation, expressed profound gratitude for the FirstEnergy Foundation's generous support. "This $25,000 grant will directly empower veterans with physical, cognitive, and behavioral disabilities by expanding access to adaptive fitness, wellness coaching, and peer mentorship. With this funding, we will help more veterans regain strength, build community and rediscover their purpose through movement. Together, we are changing lives – one repetition, one mile, one mission at a time," Pilkington noted.

Recently, Hawkins, along with other employees from the Met-Ed team, visited IM Able's adaptive gym. During a tour of the facility, they had the opportunity to ride a modified hand crank-propelled cycle specifically designed for those with physical disabilities. Such adaptive handcycles can cost as much as $20,000. This experience not only highlighted the need for specialized fitness equipment but also showcased FirstEnergy's commitment to supporting people with disabilities.

The FirstEnergy Foundation, by offering assistance to tax-exempt nonprofits, plays a vital role in serving community needs in areas where the company's electric operating branches engage. As of June 2025, the foundation has dispersed nearly $1.1 million in grants that have helped tackle issues from hunger relief to youth education and disaster recovery efforts. Furthermore, the employee-driven United Way Campaign amassed over $1 million this year alone, positively impacting more than 800 organizations.

The IM Able Foundation works to dismantle barriers that prevent individuals with various challenges from enjoying physical activities. Initially established to assist individuals in acquiring expensive adaptive equipment, the foundation has evolved its mission to include organizing programs that support physical, mental, and social wellness. Activities are designed to ensure inclusivity for people of all abilities.

In conclusion, the $25,000 donation from the FirstEnergy Foundation to the IM Able Foundation not only enhances adaptive fitness opportunities but also fosters community bonds and supports the well-being of individuals, particularly veterans transitioning back into civilian life. Such investments by FirstEnergy reflect a strong commitment to uplifting community spirits and improving the quality of life for many.