The Educational Foundation of Lake County received a $28,000 STEM grant from the Duke Energy Foundation to provide funds for STEM projects in Lake County Schools.

“The Duke Energy Foundation has been a tremendous supporter of Lake County Schools,” said Carman Cullen-Batt, Executive Director, Educational Foundation.

The educational grant will help fund STEM projects, and the workforce development initiatives are designed to further bolster and expand the state’s existing skilled workforce.

“I’m proud to say our ‘K to Career’ grant cycle is the largest investment we make in the state each year,” said Harry Sideris, Duke Energy Florida president. “It demonstrates our commitment to the future of our communities by preparing students to become  leaders and enabling and empowering a skilled workforce to meet the needs in high-demand fields.”

Duke Energy workforce development grants have helped train workers across the country, including a program for energy workers at Lake-Sumter State College in Leesburg, Fla: https://illumination.duke-energy.com/articles/how-to-prepare-the-workforce-of-the-future.

Duke Energy’s grants to K-12 local education foundations are also eligible for dollar-for-dollar matching funds through the state of Florida’s School District Education Foundation Matching Grant Program, doubling the impact of the investment.

“The deep commitment of Duke Energy to Florida’s future is evident in their investments in our students – from kindergarten through college,” said Mary Chance, president of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations. “From rural communities to urban school districts, Duke Energy is making STEM education relevant to students of all ages through hands-on activities and experiential learning, helping them make the vital connections they need to see themselves in STEM careers.”

The Foundation annually funds more than $33 million to communities throughout Duke Energy’s seven-state service area. In 2017, the company donated more than $5 million to nonprofit organizations in Florida.

Additionally, Duke Energy’s volunteer support solidifies its commitment to the communities it serves. Florida employees have also rolled up their sleeves to help their neighbors. Last year, employees volunteered more than 15,000 hours in their communities.

For additional information on Duke Energy’s community giving programs, visit duke-energy.com/foundation.