Duke Energy Foundation Boosts Pinellas Education with $100,000 Grant to Support Local Schools

Duke Energy Foundation and Pinellas Education Foundation Team Up for Student Innovation

Duke Energy Florida, alongside the Duke Energy Foundation, has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to education in Pinellas County by granting $100,000 to the Pinellas Education Foundation. This new funding will significantly bolster the Future Cities program aimed at educating middle school students about sustainable urban development and economic principles.

Empowering Future Innovators

The Future Cities program invites sixth to eighth-grade students to delve into real-world challenges surrounding energy, land use, and environmental conservation. Participants are tasked with brainstorming and constructing models of cities that address pressing sustainability issues within a city-wide framework. This hands-on approach not only fosters creativity but also equips students with vital problem-solving skills relevant to real-life scenarios.

The company's ongoing sponsorship also extends to the Stavros Institute's Enterprise Village and Finance Park, educational hubs where elementary and high school students can engage with fundamental economic concepts. The parks teach students the dynamics between consumers and businesses and empower them to make informed financial choices. In the previous academic year alone, over 14,000 students took part in these unique learning experiences, which have become integral to the curriculum in Pinellas County.

Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida's state president, expressed pride in the impact of these educational experiences, stating, "Enterprise Village and Finance Park have grown into one of Pinellas County's most popular destinations and innovative learning experiences." She highlighted how many Duke Energy employees cherish memories of their own visits to these educational facilities, reinforcing the programs' positive influence on communities.

Innovating Learning Spaces

This year, renovations to the storefronts within Enterprise Village and Finance Park reflect an emphasis on advanced energy concepts and sustainability. Upgrades include new interactive tools such as virtual reality setups, thermal cameras, and educational resources that merge technology with environmental education. Duke Energy has supported Enterprise Village since its inception in 1989, demonstrating a longstanding dedication to nurturing financial literacy and innovation among young learners.

Kim Jowell, CEO of the Pinellas Education Foundation, echoed the importance of Duke Energy’s contributions, stating, "Duke Energy is a valued supporter of Pinellas Education Foundation." She noted the unique opportunities provided by the company's funding for students to explore sustainable solutions to critical environmental concerns.

Nearly Four Decades of Support

For close to forty years, the collaboration between Duke Energy Florida and the Pinellas Education Foundation has resulted in over $4 million in donations, grants, and sponsorships. This continued support is vital for enhancing educational initiatives that ensure students are well-equipped for academic and career success.

Duke Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, serves approximately 2 million customers across a vast service area. The Duke Energy Foundation plays a pivotal role in bolstering community initiatives with an annual philanthropic budget exceeding $30 million, ensuring educational institutions receive the resources they need.

The Pinellas Education Foundation, established in 1986, aims to transform the lives of students, provide essential resources for teachers, and promote initiatives that accelerate educational achievement across the board. With a focus on early literacy and career readiness, the foundation's programs strive to close achievement gaps and ensure the success of all students.

As Duke Energy Florida continues to invest in local education, the positive impacts on the community are undeniable, showcasing a model of corporate responsibility that other organizations might aspire to emulate.

To learn more about the initiatives of Duke Energy Florida and the Pinellas Education Foundation, visit pinellaseducation.org.