The Duke Energy Foundation announced on April 16 that it is awarding $22,500 to five nonprofit organizations in Florida as part of its America250 initiative. The grants are the first round of a larger investment aimed at supporting community projects across the company’s six-state service area ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The funding aims to strengthen communities by supporting affordable housing, accessibility, historical celebrations, environmental cleanup efforts, and veteran services. Each organization will use the grant money for specific projects that address local needs.
Among the recipients is the Citizens of Gulf County Recovery Team, which received $5,000 to help purchase energy efficient appliances for new affordable homes being built on donated lots. Kathy Gilbert, executive director of the organization said: “We are grateful for Duke Energy’s support. Safe and affordable housing for our citizens takes commitment from the public, corporate and government sectors. It lies at the core of a healthy, sustainable community. Duke Energy knows that and their generosity means a great deal to a great many.”
Other grantees include Foundation for Parks & Recreation Community Support with $5,000 toward an ADA-compliant boardwalk in Mexico Beach; Jefferson County Historical Association with $5,000 for Independence Day events; Keep Alachua County Beautiful with $2,500 for participation in a large-scale cleanup program; and All Veterans Center with $5,000 to provide meals at veterans’ events. Kimberly Shoaf from Foundation for Parks & Recreation Community Support said: “The partnership between Duke Energy and PARCs to assist in providing an ADA-compliant walkover in Mexico Beach is a testament to strong community support. We appreciate Duke Energy’s continued investment in the communities they serve and their role in helping create accessibility for all.”
Claudette McRae from Jefferson County Historical Association added: “Jefferson County enthusiastically anticipates partnering with Duke Energy to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary. Duke Energy has always been a leader in our county and played an active role in its future growth.” Carlos Gonzalez from Keep Alachua County Beautiful said: “This investment directly strengthens our effort to build neighborhood pride, reduce blight and encourage long-term stewardship throughout Alachua County. We are truly grateful for Duke Energy’s partnership and thank them for believing in our mission to create cleaner, greener and more vibrant communities.” Harvey R. Engle from All Veterans Center stated: “We are afforded opportunities to provide special activities for our veterans through the kindness and generosity of community minded businesses such as Duke Energy. Thank you, Duke Energy, for your support and desire to be a part of our veteran care process.”
These awards represent only part of more than $1 million committed by the foundation through America250 grants nationwide this year; additional recipients will be named later this spring.
