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Supporting Local Communities: Duke Energy's Grant Initiative

As part of its celebration of Black History Month, Duke Energy has taken a commendable step by awarding a total of $50,000 in grants to benefit nonprofit organizations throughout South Carolina. This initiative showcases the company's dedication to uplifting and uplifting communities, reinforcing its connection with local residents.

Engaging Employees in Community Grant Selection

In a unique approach, Duke Energy involved nearly 4,000 of its employees in the grant nomination process. Each employee had the opportunity to suggest local nonprofits that they believed would benefit from financial assistance. This democratic and employee-driven selection process underscores the company’s commitment to addressing the specific needs of the communities they serve. Tim Pearson, President of Duke Energy South Carolina, elaborated on the initiative, stating, “We reached out to our dedicated workforce to identify organizations they believed deserved this funding.”

The five selected beneficiaries each received a $10,000 grant, with the aim of furthering their efforts in education, health, and community development. The recipients include:

• - Boys & Girls Club of the Pee Dee Area (Florence and Darlington counties) - dedicated to empowering youth and providing a supportive environment.
• - Calvary Children's Home (Anderson County) - focusing on providing a home and support for at-risk youth.
• - Fostering Faithfully (Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson counties) - helping families involved in foster care.
• - Greer Relief and Resource Agency (Spartanburg and Greenville counties) - committed to alleviating poverty and providing essential resources.
• - A Father’s Way (Lancaster, York, Union, and Chester counties) - focusing on guiding men towards responsible fatherhood.

Impact of the Grants

The financial contributions are vital for these organizations, enabling them to continue their important work within their communities. Caroline Robertson, Executive Director of Greer Relief, expressed gratitude, noting that the support would enhance their capacity to provide essential resources to underprivileged individuals.

Neal L. Zimmerman Jr., Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Pee Dee Area, also articulated the significance of this partnership, recognizing Duke Energy’s role in empowering young individuals to realize their potential through various developmental programs.

Duke Energy Foundation's Ongoing Commitment

In addition to this initiative, the Duke Energy Foundation consistently invests in the communities it serves, allocating over $30 million annually toward various philanthropic efforts. These investments are designed to meet the numerous needs of local residents, from education to community development to environmental stewardship.

Duke Energy, a prominent energy holding company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, serves over 8.4 million customers across multiple states, reflecting its extensive reach and commitment to community welfare. Its ongoing efforts to improve energy efficiency and promote sustainable practices are essential components of its operational strategy, influencing the way energy is generated and consumed.

By fostering partnerships with nonprofits and community organizations, Duke Energy not only enhances its corporate responsibility standing but also plays a critical role in the economic and social development of the regions it services. These initiatives reaffirm the company's belief that supporting local communities is just as crucial as providing reliable energy.

To learn more about Duke Energy’s initiatives and ongoing projects, visit their official website or follow them on social media platforms, including X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Discover how the energy company is committing to a more sustainable and community-focused future.