FirstEnergy Appoints Don Rettig as New VP and Foundation President to Boost Community Engagement

FirstEnergy Appoints Don Rettig as Vice President and Foundation President

FirstEnergy Corp., a significant player in the utilities sector throughout the United States, has taken a notable step in its community engagement efforts by naming Don Rettig as Vice President and President of the FirstEnergy Foundation. This essential role is designed to elevate the foundation’s philanthropic strategy and enhance charitable investments within communities where FirstEnergy operates.

In his capacity as President of the FirstEnergy Foundation, Rettig will be tasked with spearheading initiatives that align with the company's strategic charitable giving priorities. In conjunction with company leaders and external community organizations, Rettig will create and foster collaborations to enhance the philanthropic impact of the foundation. His new role represents an important opportunity for FirstEnergy to align its business objectives with broader community support.

Wade Smith, President of FirstEnergy Utilities, expressed optimism about Rettig's appointment. He noted, "The Foundation is one of the avenues through which we give back and make a meaningful impact beyond our daily operations. Don brings a wealth of experience in fostering connections between companies and the communities they serve, which is crucial in understanding community needs and effectively utilizing our resources."

Don Rettig’s previous experience with Owens Corning as director of community affairs and president of the Owens Corning Foundation has provided him with a solid foundation in corporate philanthropy. His tenure there saw him develop a global community affairs strategy that significantly enhanced corporate contributions across more than 20 countries.

Prior to his time at Owens Corning, Rettig dedicated 14 years to Metroparks Toledo where he held various leadership roles culminating as executive director. His educational background, featuring a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Public Administration from Bowling Green State University, underscores his commitment to understanding both organizational management and community service.

In recent years, the FirstEnergy Foundation has made substantial contributions to nonprofit organizations, with nearly $140 million donated since its inception in 2001. In 2026, the foundation honed its focus on four critical community needs: housing stability, hunger relief, workforce development, and STEM education. This targeted approach has led to a remarkable boost in financial support for these urgent initiatives. For instance, grants issued during Hunger Action Month saw funding doubled to $5 million from the previous year. Moreover, the budget for the Shelter, Safety and Stability initiative increased to $500,000, marking a fivefold increase from 2025.

By the end of 2026, nearly $6.5 million in community support has already been distributed, demonstrating FirstEnergy's commitment to addressing pressing community issues through strategic investment. This direct support not only aids immediate needs but also fosters long-term community resilience.

Rettig’s leadership is poised to make a significant impact on these initiatives, ensuring that FirstEnergy's resources are aligned with the needs of the communities it serves. His experience and insight into community engagement will no doubt enhance the foundation’s mission.

About FirstEnergy Foundation
The FirstEnergy Foundation is dedicated to supporting 501(c)(3) organizations across the company’s operational area. Its mission is to strengthen community outcomes and facilitate transformative impacts through strategic giving. The core giving priorities reflect critical community needs, including but not limited to housing stability, hunger relief, workforce development, and education initiatives focused on STEM fields.

About FirstEnergy Corp.
FirstEnergy Corp. is a prominent utility company dedicated to service excellence, safety, and reliability. Operating one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the United States, FirstEnergy serves over 6 million customers in several states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. With approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines, it connects key regions in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, demonstrating a commitment to operational efficiency and community service.