Over six million people know Dominion Energy as a provider of the power that heats their homes, cools their offices, and sends electricity and natural gas to customers in 19 states. Though, many do not know about the programs they donate to and support that encourage stewardship and improve the environment.
According to a press release, Dominion Energy has awarded over $1 million in grants in 2018 through to do just that – supporting a variety of initiatives that benefit schools, organizations, and communities across the country. Since 2003, the Dominion Energy Environmental Education and Stewardship grant program has donated over $32 million to almost 130 non-profit organizations and schools in 12 states, all in the goal of protecting and improving the environment.
Whether it’s recycling paper at high schools, rescuing sea animals near the coastline, or just exploring the wonderful outdoors, the philanthropic arm of Dominion Energy, the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, has supported projects and initiatives to bolster involvement in the environment and the protection thereof.
“Each year I am impressed by the diverse and meaningful efforts being made in our communities to improve and sustain the environment,” said Hunter A. Applewhite, president of the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.
“These grants support programs and people dedicated to making our world a better, more livable place – one that can be treasured today and passed down to future generations,” he added.
The Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation awards grants in four main areas:
Human needs – Initiatives that are founded upon the notion of increased food security in communities, provide housing and shelter for under-privileged people, and access to medical and healthcare in impoverished communities.
Environmental stewardship – Programs and studies that are carried out in order to protect natural resources and aid companies and non-profit organizations to make efficient use of energy.
Education – These grants serve as the launching point for many who wish to gain a better understanding and be a part of a 21st century workforce. Typically, these grants are awarded to those seeking to be study and work in the energy and the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
Community vitality – Organization that help foster an appreciation of a diverse community, economically and culturally. Moreover, they are used to assist in the revitalization of neighborhoods around the county and ensure a vibrant community life through the support of cultural endeavors.
Just some of the 2018 grant recipients are:
Blue Sky Fund in Richmond, Virginia, to provide urban youth with environmental field trips and adventure clubs that feature outdoor activities and education.
Therapeutic Adventures, Inc. in Charlottesville, Virginia, for its adaptive sports program to help people living with disabilities enjoy nature while skiing, paddling, fly-fishing and more.
Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia, for rescue and treatment of sea turtles hooked by recreational anglers.
Ann’s Circle in Dowell, Maryland, for a pavilion and outdoor classroom for nature programs, summer camps, family outings and others visiting the Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center.
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center in Mystic, Connecticut, to give students a deeper understanding of science through environmental investigations of wildlife, plants and habitats.
Environmental Education Foundation in Auburn, New York, for its New York State “Envirothon,” a competition testing high school teams on knowledge of natural resources and environmental issues.
Mineral County Alternative School in Keyser, West Virginia, for its recycling program that turns used paper into fire-starter bricks sold by special needs students at the school’s general store.
Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition in Akron, Ohio, for two beautification projects enhancing a historic towpath trail used by 2.5 million hikers and bikers each year.
As Dominion Energy supports a wide array of program and initiative, most grants are in the $1,000 to $15,000 range. Though, higher amounts may be awarded when a program is an exceptional fit with corporate business or giving priorities, or especially when there is significant employee involvement in the effort.
Therefore, if one believes they can help benefit the community or environment and can use a grant, visit their page to find out more information.
