Duke Energy Foundation recently announced its first round of grants, totaling $275,000, in honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
Grants have been awarded to 11 organizations for projects focused on parks and green space revitalization, tree planting, trail maintenance and litter prevention. Funding was also distributed to environmental stewardship programs with TreesUpstate and the city of Florence.
The funding recipients include:
- TreesUpstate: $100,000
- Upstate Greenways and Trails Alliance: $15,000
- The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina: $10,000
- Sumter Green: $13,000
- South Carolina Wildlife Federation: $15,000
- PalmettoPride Chapters: $50,000
- Friends of Andrews Library: $10,000
- City of Florence: $10,000
- Foothills Trail Conservancy: $10,000
- Kalmia Gardens: $7,000
- KC Trails: $5,000
- Open Space Institute: $15,000
- Palmetto Conservation: $15,000
Upstate Greenways and Trails Alliance plans to use the grant funding to expand the trail network at Mile Creek Park in Pickens County and install an educational marker at Fort Prince George. UGATA Executive Director Matt Hudson-Flege said they are grateful to the Duke Energy Foundation for the opportunity to help people enjoy the natural beauty and history of Upstate South Carolina.
Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy South Carolina, said the 250th anniversary of America is an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history while working to support the next generation. Additional grant recipients for Duke Energy Foundation’s America250 initiative will be announced later this spring.
“We are proud to partner with local organizations who can help care for the Palmetto State now, so future generations can enjoy its beauty,” Pearson said. “Together, we can create lasting impact in the communities where we live and work.”
For more information, visit foundation.duke-energy.com/Request-for-Proposal.
