Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., recently announced donations totaling $40,000 to two nonprofit organizations in Maryland and West Virginia. These contributions, part of the FirstEnergy Foundation’s annual “Gifts of the Season” campaign, were directed toward Operation Second Chance and Stars That Shine. Each organization received $20,000 to further their missions of community support and empowerment.
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“We’re pleased to make these donations to two organizations that are doing extraordinary work and providing meaningful support to Maryland and West Virginia communities we serve. The recipients were chosen by FirstEnergy employees who identified organizations in their local areas that strengthen the community and enhance the lives of vulnerable and underserved individuals,” stated Lorna Wisham, President of the FirstEnergy Foundation.
Operation Second Chance, based in Montgomery County, Maryland, assists wounded, injured, and ill combat veterans and their families. The organization offers services such as financial assistance, morale-building retreats, and public awareness initiatives. The funds will be used to support activities at Heroes Ridge at Raven Rock, a 275-acre retreat in Sabillasville, Maryland, designed to provide veterans and their families with a tranquil environment to rest and reconnect.
“We are deeply grateful to the FirstEnergy Foundation for this generous grant, which will have a transformative impact on the lives of disabled veterans and their families. At Heroes Ridge, veterans and their families find a safe and nurturing environment to reconnect, heal and build resilience. The funding helps cover essential costs, including accommodations, therapeutic activities and specialized support services, ensuring that every retreat participant feels cared for and empowered,” stated Cindy McGrew, CEO, Operation Second Chance.
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In the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, Stars That Shine focuses on mentoring young women and girls, providing programs that foster self-esteem, academic success, and career readiness. The donation will help the organization relaunch its high school program in 2025, which aims to provide mentorship, leadership training, and academic support to young women from challenging backgrounds.
“This donation will enable us to empower, educate and lead girls at the high school level, providing not only academic support but mentorship, leadership training and a supportive community where girls can thrive and reach their full potential,” stated Alisha Puller, Executive Director, Stars That Shine.
The “Gifts of the Season” initiative, launched in 2016, aligns with FirstEnergy’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. To date, the campaign has awarded approximately $1.1 million to first-time grant recipients, prioritizing organizations serving diverse and underserved populations. Eligible entities must meet specific criteria, including being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and addressing one or more diverse community categories.
Potomac Edison serves nearly 440,000 customers across Maryland and West Virginia, providing electric service to a broad range of communities. Through its foundation, FirstEnergy continues to support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the areas it serves.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors
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