Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
As any teacher will tell you, the transition to a virtual environment has been a challenge. That’s why we’re stepping up to ease the burden and connect students with the resources they need to thrive.
Through a partnership with Smithsonian Science Education Center, Da Vinci Science Center, and the Allentown School District, we successfully launched a STEM literacy series for fourth and fifth grade students.
STEM – which stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math” – is critical as it prepares students for future success in both school and their careers.
To kick-off this initiative, we funded a professional development training with teachers so they could successfully launch the STEM program for roughly 2,500 students. Fourth graders learn about energy in the home, while fifth grade students are studying environmental energy. The great thing about this program is students receive a STEM package of their own, including a textbook and science kit. These resources are for the students to keep at home and share with their families after the 6-week lesson is complete.
We’re proud to play a small part in preventing STEM learning loss for these students during such a difficult time. Here’s to the next generation of STEM leaders!
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
In 2018 when we agreed to grant $100,000 to the Susquehanna Health Foundation toward an “ambulance bus,” it was an exciting and innovative idea. But this year, we saw that idea and vision come to life.
Now, this climate-controlled, 15 passenger, ambulance bus will be used for a variety of functions, all contributing to the health and safety of the community. The goal is to reach residents across 12 counties, 7 of which are within our territory, through paramedic and firefighter training and drills for emergency responders. It’s already been put to good use, delivering COVID19 vaccines to senior citizens in Williamsport, Lycoming County.
Since its founding in 2015, the PPL Foundation has contributed $15 million to organizations across our 29-county region. We’re proud to play a small part in preparing for the unique healthcare needs of this area, while supporting two of the PPL Foundation’s major focuses: education and sustainable communities.
We’re looking forward to seeing the ambulance bus in action!
Mar 19, 2021 | Community Involvement
Mike Bezick’s day-to-day routine as a journeyman, doesn’t normally include helping a stranded customer. But one cold day this winter, that’s exactly what he did.
As Mike drove back to our Lehigh Service Center during a fresh snowstorm, he discovered a vehicle that slid off the roadway into a tree. Mike stopped to see how he could help.
After assessing the situation, he confirmed the driver was conscious but recognized he could not exit his vehicle. The tree was blocking the drivers’ door. Mike, concerned for his safety, immediately called 911 to report the accident. Then he stayed with the driver, keeping him calm, until the emergency responders arrived.
Our employees are always willing to offer a helping hand, whether that means volunteering in their local communities, or stopping at the scene of an accident. Mike embodies our corporate values. And we’re proud of the courage and kindness he displayed as he helped a customer in need.
Feb 11, 2021 | Community Involvement, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion
On February 2, Monica Brooks, our manager of diversity & inclusion, stole the show as a panelist at the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion event at a Local Leaders Summit. The virtual event was presented to Leadership Lycoming alumni and included conversations around building a powerful and dynamic culture. Leadership Lycoming offers professional development opportunities for aspiring leaders and community volunteers. Over 100 graduates of the program attended the event.
Monica, along with the other panelists, discussed several topics, including:
- Creating awareness of implicit bias
- Diversity in the workplace
- Benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Building authentic relationships and trust
Monica gave examples of our focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion by talking about PPL’s Business Resource Groups, company policies, standards of integrity, and hiring practices. She also shared examples of our leaders’ commitment and dedication to fostering an inclusive workplace.
“At PPL we create an environment where people feel heard,” said Monica. “Employees know they can show up and be their true selves without judgment.”
The audience enjoyed a personal story Monica shared about her eagerness to advocate for fellow students as early as elementary school. Everyone agreed she was destined for this role.
To learn more about PPL’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, visit pplweb.com
Feb 1, 2021 | Community Involvement
We’re kicking off our annual Operation HELP campaign with hopes of helping more eligible families than ever before.
Operation HELP offers grants to customers struggling with their energy bills. And after a year like 2020, they can really use our support.
Every year, we support Operation HELP with nearly one million dollars in grant money. Our generous employees and customers also donate to help those in need. It’s the customer support that makes the program truly special. We can all find a way to help our community.
If you are able, we’re asking you to consider a donation. Your contribution, whether a one-time donation, or a few dollars every month, will help our neighbors keep their homes warm.
We live and work in this community together so when our friends, families, and neighbors need a hand, we deliver.
Visit pplelectric.com/operationhelp to learn more or donate.
