The Duke Energy Foundation announced on April 16 that it has awarded more than $250,000 in grants to support the revitalization of parks and green spaces across six states. The funding will go to 32 local nonprofit organizations in North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky and Florida.
These grants are intended to help community-led efforts such as cleanups, landscaping projects, playground improvements and trail enhancements. The aim is to strengthen outdoor spaces where people gather for recreation and community events.
This round of funding represents the first awards under the Foundation’s America250 initiative. The initiative is a commitment of more than $1 million toward community-driven projects throughout Duke Energy’s service areas in recognition of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The announcement also coincides with Earth Day volunteer activities by Duke Energy employees who are participating in park cleanups and beautification efforts.
Additional recipients of America250 grants will be named later this spring. Future rounds will include support for veterans’ workforce pathways as well as programs that expand access to history and civics education.
The Duke Energy Foundation provides nearly $30 million each year in philanthropic support funded by company shareholders. Duke Energy itself serves electric customers across six states with a total energy capacity of 55,700 megawatts and also provides natural gas services in four states. The company continues to invest in grid upgrades and new generation resources as part of its modernization strategy.
