AMARILLO, Texas (Aug. 25, 2021) – The Xcel Energy Foundation has awarded $370,000 to 50 nonprofit organizations and educational institutions that are focused on community-building initiatives in Xcel Energy’s Texas-New Mexico service area.
“Xcel Energy and our predecessor companies have grown up with the communities we serve across the area, and we know from years of experience that educational attainment and job growth are foundational to the health and sustainability of our towns and cities,” said David Hudson, president, Xcel Energy – New Mexico, Texas. “Through the Xcel Energy Foundation, we are able to target programs and organizations that are doing the greatest good in providing area residents opportunities to learn and grow, which benefits everyone.”
Xcel Energy Foundation’s Education grants boost systems and programs that focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, or STEM. Groups receiving funding have developed programs for hands-on learning opportunities demonstrating the linkages between math and science, real-world applications, and future careers. Education grant recipients focus on increasing the number of students entering and completing post-secondary education in STEM disciplines and pursuing STEM careers.
Economic sustainability funding supports programs that promote workforce development, workforce readiness, specific job skills training, job placement and job creation. Additionally, the Xcel Energy Foundation is funding programs that provide case management and support services to low-income populations, assisting them in attaining and retaining employment that leads to economic self-sufficiency.
“The grants are investments in the communities where we live and work” Hudson said. “Our nonprofits are partners with the business community in continually improving the quality of life in our region, and they’ve done an especially remarkable job during the pandemic when so much has been asked of them.”
