The Duke Energy Foundation announced on Apr. 16 that it is awarding $22,500 in grants to five nonprofit organizations in Florida as part of its America250 initiative. The grants are the first round of a larger investment exceeding $250,000 across six states served by the company.
The funding aims to strengthen communities ahead of America’s 250th anniversary by supporting projects focused on housing, accessibility, community improvement, historical celebration, and veteran support.
Among the recipients is the Citizens of Gulf County Recovery Team, which received $5,000 to help provide 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.”
The Foundation for Parks & Recreation Community Support also received $5,000 to construct an ADA-compliant dune walkover boardwalk at Sunset Park in Mexico Beach. Kimberly Shoaf, vice president of the foundation 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.”
Other grant recipients include the Jefferson County Historical Association with $5,000 toward July Fourth celebrations; Keep Alachua County Beautiful with $2,500 for participation in cleanup programs; and All Veterans Center with $5,000 designated for providing meals at veterans’ events.
Claudette McRae from Jefferson County Historical Association said: “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 stated: “This investment directly strengthens our effort to build neighborhood pride… We are truly grateful for Duke Energy’s partnership…” Harvey R. Engle from All Veterans Center added: “We are afforded opportunities to provide special activities for our veterans through… businesses such as Duke Energy.”
These grants mark only the beginning under America250—a program committing over $1 million toward community-driven projects throughout all areas served by Duke Energy companies.
Additional grant announcements are expected later this spring focusing on veterans’ workforce pathways and initiatives expanding access to history and civics education.
