Duke Energy Foundation's $500,000 Grants Boost North Carolina's Clean Energy Transition and Community Impact


01/17/2024


As North Carolina actively expands its presence and spearheads the transition to clean energy, the Duke Energy Foundation is set to contribute over $500,000 in grants. These funds will bolster programs aimed at fortifying local nonprofit organizations and advancing environmental initiatives.
 
Kendal Bowman, President of Duke Energy in North Carolina, emphasized the commitment to playing a substantial role in uplifting communities. The grants will specifically aid local nonprofits throughout the state in amplifying their environmental impact and community involvement. Bowman stressed the crucial role of local communities in North Carolina's energy transformation, expressing anticipation for ongoing engagement as the state undergoes unprecedented growth and opportunities.
 
A total of thirty-two organizations are slated to receive grants. Anita Brown-Graham, Director of the ncIMPACT Initiative at the University of North Carolina School of Government and a recent grant recipient, sees a significant opportunity to enhance environmental awareness regarding North Carolina's future.
 
“Engaging all voices in communities about our environment is critical,” she said. “The ncIMPACT Initiative grant from the Duke Energy Foundation will uplift Carolina Across 100's ‘Our State, Our Work’ program to offer young adults who find their way back to school and employment a voice on important community issues. Regions of North Carolina facing pressing environmental challenges are also those experiencing the highest rates of youth disconnection. It is critical to include the voices of lived experience from these young adults in environmental programs. They are the path to our collective future.”
 
The North Carolina Wildlife Federation has been a Duke Energy philanthropic partner for years. “Funding from Duke Energy is critical to our mission,” said Tim Gestwicki, CEO of the NC Wildlife Federation. “We are proud to partner to advance our mission to protect, conserve and restore North Carolina wildlife and habitat for all, and our latest grant will help us address biodiversity loss by restoring habitat in historically underserved communities of Wilmington.”