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Category: SECO Energy Foundation

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter. The SECO Energy Foundation presented the grant funds to the organization to assist with funding the Veteran’s Housing Preservation & Repair Program.

 

The mission of Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Since 1989, Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter (HFHLS) has been the bridge to affordable and stable homeownership for families. The organization strives to provide innovative, affordable housing solutions in Lake and Sumter Counties. In 2015, the organization established the Preservation & Repair Program to address the growing need of individuals and families who owned their homes and may have lived in their homes for generations, but for various reasons, were unable to maintain the health, safety, and/or improve the accessibility of their homes for their aging or health needs.

 

SECO Energy Foundation grant to Habitat for Humanity Lake-SumterLacie Himes, Development Director of Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter is thankful for the SECO Energy Foundation’s support. Himes stated, “Through the Preservation & Repair Program, the repairs performed by Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter include modifications for accessibility, such as ramps and grab bars, ADA compliant bathrooms and doorways; installation or extension of plumbing and electrical systems; HVAC; repair of structural components, and roofing repairs or replacement.”

 

SECO Foundation Board Director Matt Roudabush was enthusiastic about the grant’s impact, stating, “Our Board of Directors agreed that these veterans, who have selflessly served our nation, deserve our help when they are in need. The critical home repairs Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter will complete, including interior or exterior work to improve health, life, safety, or accessibility issues, are true examples of how these heroes will not be forgotten.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024 and it falls under the “Veterans Initiatives” category of funding programs.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Foundation $10,000 Grant Supports United Way of Citrus County

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded the United Way of Citrus County a $10,000 community grant. The United Way of Citrus County has earmarked the grant funds to support The Grow Initiative: Financial Literacy; participants learn about financial literacy through classes that teach clients how to budget, manage and build credit, create a résumé, interview for jobs, and other skills to prepare them for financial success.

 

The GROW Initiative provides an opportunity to improve lives by teaching skills essential to long-term stability, which is an unknown concept to many people. The SECO Energy Foundation grant, with contributions from other community partners, will enable the organization to improve lives, create sustainable change, and assist Citrus County residents.

 

United Way of Citrus County CEO, George Schmalstig, described how the funding from SECO Energy Foundation would extend beyond supporting just the courses. Schmalstig stated, “This community grant from the SECO Energy Foundation will also be used to provide emergency assistance to participants attending the financial literacy courses. We want to be sure each person has the support to complete the training, so we will step in if needs arise.”

 

SECO Energy Foundation Board member, Mary Pericht, endorsed the approval of the grant’s potential impact, saying, “We respect the history of the United Way of Citrus County and their past achievements. Supporting this program made sense from the standpoint of its potential to radically improve the lives of Citrus County residents.”

 

Examples of emergency assistance could be eviction mitigation, rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, and car repairs, to name a few.

 

SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director, Mariah Delgado was confident the initiative would result in a positive outcome, stating, “I am so happy our Board chose to approve this grant, and I believe this team at United Way of Citrus County can execute The GROW Initiative successfully.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports United Way of Marion County

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 community grant to United Way of Marion County. The SECO Energy Foundation presented the grant funds to the organization in support of both the 2-1-1 helpline and the Strong Families program that addresses homelessness and promotes debt reduction with one-on-one success coaching. 

 

The United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline connects individuals with essential community resources, such as healthcare referrals, assistance with housing, food, and mental health resources, which are directly related to the health and well-being of the community. The Strong Families initiative aims to end generational poverty by pairing participants with success coaches who will concentrate on providing guidance in managing debt, increasing personal income, and furthering their education. During this year-long program, participants will advance their long-term financial stability. 

 

The United Way of Marion County’s VP of Community Impact, Beth Nelson expressed gratitude for the SECO Energy Foundation grant, saying, “We are very grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for this support. Our 2-1-1 helpline is very well-utilized and our ability to support it is strengthened by this grant.” She continued, “We believe teaching financial concepts to less-fortunate individuals through the Strong Families program will truly change lives and offer a brighter outlook for future generations. There really is nothing else like this available locally.” 

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.  

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director Mariah Delgado was supportive of the organization’s plans for the funds. Delgado shared, “The grant to the United Way of Marion County is going to make a difference, I believe. Changing lives with education is a terrific long-term approach to improving the lives of the homeless population that truly wants to succeed in life, and the 2-1-1 program has been a valuable source of community support for years. This grant should help each initiative and the SECO Energy Foundation is happy to provide it.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Foundation $50,000 Grant Supports United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties

The SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $50,000 community grant to United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties. On Wednesday, April 10, 2024, the SECO Energy Foundation presented the funds to the organization during a brief ceremony at their Leesburg office. The grant will support the Mission United veteran’s assistance initiative dedicated to supporting the needs of veterans in our community.

 

The Mission United veteran’s assistance program addresses transportation, financial stability, emergency assistance, housing, and other essential services. Crucial transportation services to medical, dental, and mental health appointments, grocery stores, Veterans Affairs appointments, and other necessary destinations are provided along with rent and utility assistance, emergency financial support, and food assistance. Veterans are offered personalized support that connects them with necessary resources including employment, education, training, and housing.

 

United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties CEO, Jessica Davis is thankful for the SECO Energy Foundation’s community support. Davis stated, “The SECO Energy Foundation grant is instrumental, as it will enable us to reach more veterans, provide more comprehensive services, and continue making a significant impact in the lives of those who have given so much for our nation.”

 

The grant was one of five grants approved by the SECO Energy Foundation Board at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director Mariah Delgado is enthusiastic about the organization’s plans for the funds. Delgado stated, “The grant to the United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties will truly make a difference in our local communities. It will help the United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties’ mission, including addressing health, family stability, and education needs. In this case, it also serves our veterans, so two of the SECO Energy Foundation’s target initiatives are supported.”

 

United Way receives grant from SECO Energy FoundationDelgado added, “The SECO Energy Foundation is pleased to have these funds applied to such a good program. We are excited to contribute to efforts that will provide opportunities to improve the quality of life in our communities.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation aims to support charitable organizations that assist residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO Energy Foundation Approves $200,000 in Community Grants

The SECO Energy Foundation Directors approved $200,000 in community grants at their first quarterly meeting in 2024. The funded grants will be used to support charitable organizations that assist local residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy. SECO serves over 240,000 homes and businesses in Central Florida’s Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco, and Sumter Counties.  

 

Central Florida Council, Boy Scouts of America was awarded $40,000. The award will be used to purchase a generator to operate freezer and cooling equipment at the Camp La-No-Che Boy Scout Camp located in Paisley. The generator will be an asset to the Boy Scout Council and local Scouting Associations as a means of storm preparedness.  

 

Habitat for Humanity Lake-Sumter was awarded $50,000 for their Veterans Housing Initiative. The agency is working to help veterans maintain the safety and livability of their homes. There is a growing need to help low-income families and individuals who own a home but are unable to complete necessary repairs or improve the home’s accessibility needs due to aging or health constraints. 

 

United Way of Lake and Sumter Counties received approval for $50,000 to fund their Mission United Veteran’s Assistance program. The Mission United Program is a comprehensive initiative dedicated to supporting veteran’s needs. The program aids in transportation, financial stability, emergency assistance, housing, and other essential services for veterans.  

 

United Way of Citrus County will benefit from a $10,000 grant to fund The GROW Initiative: Financial Literacy Class. Financial literacy courses provided by the United Way of Citrus County teach citizens budgeting priorities, managing and building credit, help in resumé preparation, job interview skills, and other expertise to set them up for financial success. 

 

United Way of Marion County was awarded $50,000 to support the 2-1-1 and Strong Families programs. 2-1-1 is an informational and referral helpline that connects families and individuals with essential community services and resources. The Strong Families program seeks to end generational poverty by teaching financial stability to Marion County residents. The coaching program addresses homelessness, promotes debt reduction, increased income, and education attainment. 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors President James LaMotte is excited for the organizations receiving grant funds. LaMotte stated, “The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors is pleased to fund five local charitable organizations. All funded projects will enhance or expand needed social services within our communities.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation’s Executive Director Mariah Delgado echoes Mr. LaMotte’s sentiments by adding, “The SECO Energy Foundation was organized to help charitable organizations expand their outreach. Funding was scarce for many social service agencies, that citizens depend on, during the Covid Pandemic. There is a great risk to communities as a whole when charitable programs remain under funded, and the grants funded by the SECO Energy Foundation will help immensely.”  

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a charitable organization operating as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible. 

 

The aim of the SECO Energy Foundation is to support charitable organizations that assist local residents in need and improve the quality of life in communities served by SECO Energy, which include the Central Florida counties of Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion, Pasco and Sumter. To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOFoundation.org.

SECO News May 2023

Dear Members,

 

SECO Energy is continually working to expand its online interactive tools to engage with you through new platforms and increase member engagement. I invite you to log on to SECOEnergy.com > Newsroom > System Improvement Map to view one of our latest resources.

 

RELIABILITY PROJECTS MAP

With SECO crews or contractors spread throughout our 2,100-square-mile service area, the System Improvement Map displays when and where crews are working on projects that improve service reliability and maintain existing infrastructure. The map also displays recently completed projects.

 

Want to know if we are working in your area? Input your service address in the search bar and click on your address when it appears. The map displays your location. Use the zoom plus/minus buttons to view events occurring in your area that improve reliability and maintain our expanding electric system.

 

Vegetation management assessments, tree trimming, facilities inspections, pole replacements, substation voltage conversions, area light work, underground equipment maintenance and other projects that improve the quality of your electric service are shown on the Reliability Projects tab. To learn more about a project, click its corresponding icon on the map that shows work type, status, and project duration. The “Additional Info” hyperlink provides more details, including possible planned outages for crews to work safely.

 

EXPANSION PROJECTS MAP

SECO Energy’s electric facilities investment has grown to over $1 billion. With Florida’s population boom, we’re not slowing down. The Expansion Projects tab displays where we are building new infrastructure to support growth. You’ll see icons for new and upgraded radio communication towers, substation upgrades and fiber installations.

 

The Expansion Projects map shows two substations under construction. The first in South Lake County near Clermont, called Sawgrass, will handle the booming growth in that area. The second substation, Landstone, is in Sumter County for The Villages, which continues its expansion.

 

If you have questions about Reliability or Expansion Projects, click the FAQ tab or use the Contact Us tab to drop us a line. Follow us on social media for cooperative events, promotions, prize drawings and news releases.

 

COMMUNICATIONS BY EMAIL, TEXT OR VOICE

Our interactive maps are complemented by a communications system that generates emails, text and/ or voice notifications to proactively alert you when crews are conducting a system improvement project in your locale. View or update your communications preferences by visiting SECOEnergy.com > StormCenter > Manage Notifications. Atlantic hurricane season arrives June 1, be sure your contact information and communications preferences are updated to receive outage alerts.

 

Best regards,

 

Curtis Wynn

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

SECO News May 2023 Safety Corner - Generator Safety

SAFETY CORNER: GENERATOR SAFETY

Learn how to use a generator properly and safely if you plan to use a portable or stationary generator as a backup power source during a power outage. Become familiar with the generator, read and follow the owner’s manual and safety instructions prior to operation. Always test the equipment at the start of hurricane season.Generator Safety QR code link

 

    • A qualified electrical contractor must install the generator with a disconnect and transfer switch and should perform repairs or service.
    • An incorrect connection to an electrical panel could electrocute the user or endanger our employees and contractors.
    • A permit is required to install a permanent generator and only a qualified electrician should perform the work.
    • Prior to running your generator, always disconnect it from your metered electric utility service.
    • Never run a portable generator indoors or in a garage; operate it only in well-ventilated areas away from open windows. Generators create deadly, odorless carbon monoxide (CO).
    • Store fuel away from children in approved containers. Do not fuel the generator while it is running. Extinguish flames and cigarettes when handling fuel.
    • Keep a charged, approved fire extinguisher near the generator.
    • Use undamaged and appropriately gauged extension cords.
    • Never remove or tamper with a generator’s safety devices.
    • Generator engines become very hot during operation. Severe burns may result through contact. Keep children away.

 

Using or installing an electric generator improperly can cause property damage, severe injury or even death. Members using a generator to operate life-saving equipment should verify the generator’s compatibility. Learn more about proper generator use and safety tips on our website generator safety video.

 

 

SECO News May 2023 PCA Adjustments

POWER COST ADJUSTMENT

The Price of Energy is DECREASING on Bills Calculated After May 1.

 

As our CEO Curtis Wynn reported in his March 23 Annual Meeting update, SECO forecasted a positive Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) in the coming months. The natural gas market (the main fuel used to generate power) has been volatile during the last year. The PCA, titled “Power Cost ADJ” on your billing statement, allows SECO to adjust for the rise or fall of fuel costs in real-time.

 

For several months, members who have used 1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity during a billing cycle were charged an additional $15 to cover the PCA. On May 1, the PCA decreases to zero. Effectively, adjustments to the energy rate, customer charge and PCA result in a $9 decrease for an average residential bill using 1,000 kWh.

 

 

SECO Energy Foundation

SECO Energy Foundation

 

The SECO Energy Foundation’s mission is to fund grants for Bill Payment Assistance, Energy-related Projects, Educational STEM Projects, Scholarships, Veterans’ Initiatives, Public Safety Programs, Environmental Projects, and Health and Human Services initiatives. The three grants issued thus far in 2023 support Public Safety, Health and Human Services, and Environmental causes.

 

MARION COUNTY FIRE RESCUE (MCFR)

 

The Foundation awarded $5,319 to equip three MCFR fire engines with updated material. The improved equipment empowers the rescue team to respond to emergency calls, provide civic services, and protect a team of first responders who risk their lives to help the community in the event of a fire, rescue, or medical emergency.

 

Marion County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Henry Herrera expressed, “The Marion County Fire Rescue team is thankful for the grant award that will help MCFR to respond to and provide service and protection to Marion County residents. The grant will purchase needed equipment to meet new challenges the MCFR team faces in responding to fire, rescue and medical emergencies.”

 

FIND, FEED & RESTORE

 

Joining in the fight to help homeless families, the SECO Energy Foundation awarded a $2,500 grant to Find, Feed & Restore to support the Restore Lake Project. The Restore Lake Project provides temporary housing for ten to 14 local families with children. Find, Feed & Restore provides transitional, free and permanent housing, as well as women’s mental health and domestic violence centers in Lake County.

 

Find, Feed & Restore Vice President of Development Stephen Shylkofski applauded the Foundation’s support, saying, “We are thankful for the opportunity to build on the partnership with the SECO Energy Foundation to grow our programs in Lake and Sumter Counties. Along with the SECO Energy Foundation and our other community partners, we can achieve our goal of eradicating homelessness from our communities.”

 

TROUT LAKE NATURE CENTER

A $22,000 grant to support Environmental Initiatives was awarded to the Trout Lake Nature Center (TLNC). The funding will aid TLNC, a nonprofit 501c3 corporation, in rebuilding a portion of a vital boardwalk that crosses the 230-acre preserve. In the past eight years, the Trout Lake Nature Center has hosted over 500 field trips and reached 215,708 students.

 

Trout Lake Nature Center’s Executive Director, Eileen Tramontana, shared, “People from throughout SECO’s service area come to TLNC. Almost every visitor uses the boardwalk, and most education programs do also. Renovating this boardwalk should have a significant impact on education efforts at TLNC.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is funded primarily by members who round their bills up to the nearest dollar. The average donation is $6 per year. The Foundation can also apply for grants that align with the SECO Energy Foundation’s goals.

 

Members who wish to discontinue rounding up to donate the extra pennies to the Foundation can visit SECOEnergy.com > Contact. You can also log into SmartHub and change your enrollment status, email CustomerService@SECOEnergy.com, call (352) 793-3801 or write to SECO Energy, Attn: Corp Comm, P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585.

 

 

SECO News May 2023 Hurricane Season Forecast: A Message From District 8 Trustee Bill James

THE ATLANTIC HURRICANE SEASON IS FAST APPROACHING.

NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE FOR THE START OF THE SEASON ON JUNE 1.

WE URGE ALL MEMBERS TO HAVE THEIR HURRICANE SUPPLIES READY AND A PLAN IN PLACE FOR THE SAFETY OF LOVED ONES AND PROPERTY.
DON’T DISREGARD THE WARNINGS BEFORE A STORM HITS. THOSE WHO PREPARE REDUCE THE CHANCES OF LIFE-THREATENING CONDITIONS.

 

Looking ahead to this year’s hurricane season, Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project Forecast summarized 2023 will have slightly below-average activity. They forecast this hurricane season will be close to the historical average, with 13 named storms. Not to be overlooked is their estimate that two storms will be major hurricanes (Category 3 and above).

 

SECO Energy is StormReady and prepared to respond to outages caused by summer thunderstorms, tropical storms and hurricanes. Members can report a new power outage and check the status of a current outage via StormCenter 24/7 using a mobile device or call our automated IVR phone assistant.

 

If a member of your family has special needs, add your name to the Special Needs Registry at www.FloridaDisaster.org and review shelter, evacuation and emergency services details. SECO Energy’s restoration priorities are feeders that serve shelters, schools, hospitals and government/ public safety facilities. Next, we focus on restoring service to feeders with the highest member count. Those who require continuous electric service for life-sustaining medical equipment should have a backup power source or prepare to evacuate to a shelter.

 

Essential supplies disappear quickly when a hurricane approaches. For help getting started with a supply plan, review our Hurricane Handbook at SECOEnergy.com > Safety > Hurricane Handbook.

 

 

Trout Lake Nature Center Project Receives Grant from SECO Energy Foundation

The SECO Energy Foundation announced a grant has been awarded to Trout Lake Nature Center (TLNC), located in the Eustis area. The $22,000 Environmental Projects grant was approved during the SECO Energy Foundation’s first quarterly Board of Directors Meeting. The funding will provide backing to TLNC, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) corporation, to replace a portion of a critical boardwalk that crosses the 230-acre preserve.

 

Over the last eight years, Trout Lake Nature Center has conducted over 500 field trips and reached 215,708 students. The $22,000 grant will fund a boardwalk replacement project that will allow students and members from Central Florida to enjoy the Nature Center’s environmentally friendly wetlands, mesic flatwoods and lake bottom that comprise most of TLNC.

 

Trout Lake Nature Center Grant Will Have “Significant Impact”

Trout Lake Nature Center’s Executive Director Eileen Tramontana, stated, “People throughout SECO Energy’s service area frequent the TLNC. Almost every visitor uses the boardwalk, and most education program participants do also. Renovating our boardwalk will have a significant impact on education efforts at TLNC.” The center’s walking trails are open to the public throughout the year.

 

Trout Lake Nature Center has been serving the Central Florida community through nature education, awareness, and resource conservation since 1988. It is governed by a board of directors with the assistance of an executive director and a small staff. These, along with a steady volunteer force maintain the facilities and habitats and develop and conduct programs. TLNC is supported through donations, program fees, fundraisers, grants and loyal membership.

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn “Pleased with grant decisions”

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn applauded the grant. “I am pleased with the grant decisions made by the SECO Energy Foundation in its first few months of activity. The support of this project to the Trout Lake Nature Center delivers a message of conservation, education and environmental awareness to the residents of and visitors to Central Florida.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation District 9 Board Director Matthew Roudabush stated, “Trout Lake Nature Center allows hundreds of students the educational opportunity to explore nature in person, and the Foundation Board believes helping to repair the boardwalk will enable more students and individuals to continue visiting this local environmentally friendly site.”

 

TLNC provides approximately 65 to 70 student field trips (from Pre-K to 5th grade) annually and traveling on the boardwalk to the education dock is an important part of school field trips. TLNC will rebuild the remaining section starting May 2023 with funding from several grants.

 

To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op. “Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see reliability and expansion projects in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > About.

Find, Feed & Restore Awarded $2500 SECO Energy Foundation Grant

The SECO Energy Foundation joined the battle to aid local homeless families in need by approving a $2,500 grant for Find, Feed & Restore to support the Restore Lake Project. The $2500 SECO Energy Foundation Grant supports its Health and Human Services efforts by sponsoring Find, Feed & Restore’s Love & Laughter Event on May 6 at the Clermont City Center to raise money for the housing solutions project.

 

The Restore Lake Project provides transitional housing for ten to 14 local families with children. In an effort to combat homelessness, Find, Feed & Restore provides housing solutions, including transitional housing, no-cost housing, permanent housing, Women’s Mental Health and Domestic Violence Shelter and homelessness avoidance in Lake County. The programs help families who are struggling with financial difficulties avoid homelessness. Restore Lake’s facility provides no- or low-cost housing, financial education resources and a case manager to help families into future homeownership, job opportunities and more. The facility’s goal is for its families to reach mental and physical balance and become self-sufficient.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors District 1 Director Sara Meyer is pleased the SECO Energy Foundation is making a difference in local communities. Ms. Meyer stated, “Affordable housing options for low to moderate income families have drastically decreased by Florida’s recent increased population boom. To improve the quality of life in SECO Energy’s service area for residents, the Restore Lake Project will help the families most impacted by the COVID pandemic, increasing costs and housing prices on the rise. I am extremely pleased that my fellow Directors and I unanimously approved a health and human services grant for Lake County citizens who desperately need our assistance.”

 

Find, Feed & Restore Vice President of Development Stephen Shylkofski is grateful for the SECO Energy Foundation’s partnership. Mr. Shylkofski stated, “We are thankful for the opportunity to build on the partnership with the SECO Energy Foundation to grow our programs in Lake and Sumter Counties. Along with the SECO Energy Foundation and our other community partners, we can begin to achieve our goal of eradicating homelessness from our communities.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit 501c3 entity funded largely through SECO’s electric bill roundup program and will be supplemented by grants the Foundation applies for through other private and federal funding programs that align with the SECO Energy Foundation’s goals. Participating members’ extra pennies are donated to the Foundation to fund grants and bill payment assistance that make a difference in the lives of members across the communities served by SECO Energy.

 

SECO Energy’s CEO Curtis Wynn stated, “Concern for community is a key co-op principle that ties in with health and human services in our local communities – especially for its most vulnerable members. Surveys tell us that members want to be part of an organization that does more for their consumers and communities than sell goods and services. The SECO Energy Foundation’s focus is to improve the quality of life in and around SECO’s service area. The Foundation’s support of the Restore Lake Project creates a difference in our communities.”

 

To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOEnergy.com>Your Co-op>Foundation. “Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see reliability and expansion projects in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > About.

 

SECO Energy Foundation Approves $5,319 Grant for Marion County Fire Rescue

The newly established SECO Energy Foundation approved a grant of $5,319 to benefit public safety for Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR). MCFR requested $5,319 to equip three MCFR fire engines with updated material.

 

The new equipment for the three MCFR fire engines consists of line pressure gauges, gate valves and three-way ball valves. The improved equipment prepares the local fire rescue team to respond to emergency calls, provide service to citizens and protect its team of first responders who put their lives in danger to assist the community in fire, rescue and medical emergencies.

 

According to the Marion County Fire Rescue’s website (www.marionfl.org), MCFR is a progressive, professional fire rescue department dedicated to the community’s health, safety and well-being providing excellent service, education and prevention in partnership with the citizens of Marion County.

 

The SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors President James LaMotte is excited to begin the process of approving grants that align with the SECO Energy Foundation’s goals and objectives. Mr. LaMotte stated, “The SECO Energy Foundation was founded to improve quality of life and expand services within the communities in SECO Energy’s service territory in the areas of public safety, educational STEM projects, environmental projects, scholarships, Veterans’ initiatives, health and human services, energy-related projects and bill payment assistance. Safety is SECO Energy’s most important Core Value and funding public safety initiatives is one of the Foundation’s goals. I am extremely pleased that my fellow Directors and I were able to unanimously approve a grant that will improve safety for Marion County citizens through the Marion County Fire Rescue team.”

 

Marion County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Henry Herrera is thankful for the grant award. Lieutenant Herrera stated, “The Marion County Fire Rescue team is thankful for the grant award that will help MCFR to respond to and provide service and protection to Marion County residents. The grant will purchase needed equipment to meet new challenges the MCFR team faces in responding to fire, rescue and medical emergencies.”

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit 501c3 entity that is funded largely through SECO’s electric bill round up program and will be supplemented by grants the Foundation applies for through other local, state and federal funding programs that align with the SECO Energy Foundation’s goals. Participating members’ extra pennies are donated to the Foundation to fund grants and bill payment assistance that make a difference in the lives of members across the communities served by SECO Energy.

 

SECO Energy’s CEO Curtis Wynn stated, “Concern for community is a key co-op principle and remains a high priority. Surveys tell us that members want to be part of an organization that does more for their consumers and communities than profit from the goods/services it sells. Our ability to support public safety, is one example of the Foundation’s focus to help improve the quality of life in and around SECO’s service territory.”

 

To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit SECOEnergy.com >  Your Co-op >  Foundation. “Like” SECO Energy on Facebook and follow @SECOEnergy on Twitter for prize drawings, news releases, and severe weather alerts affecting SECO Energy’s service territory. Manage your outage notification preferences at StormCenter. To see reliability and expansion projects in your area, visit our new System Improvement Map. To learn more about SECO Energy as a not-for-profit cooperative, visit SECOEnergy.com  >  Your Co-op  >  About. 

 

SECO Energy Foundation – Pennies from Heaven Transition

SECO Energy is enhancing its longstanding Pennies from Heaven program in 2023. The current Pennies program provides bill payment assistance to members and funding for other local worthy causes. In 2023, the Pennies from Heaven “program” will change to the SECO Energy Foundation. The SECO Energy Foundation’s goal is to generate more funds for projects that align with SECO members’ needs and the company’s strategic initiatives. This alignment will include increased bill payment assistance for your fellow members, as well as projects focusing on energy-efficiency, education/STEM, environmental, veterans’ initiatives and public safety.

 

The current Pennies from Heaven program is transitioning to the SECO Energy Foundation in January 2023. Contributions will be tax-deductible and allow the Foundation (as a nonprofit entity) to apply for grants from other local, state and federal sources. Grants may include investments in first responder equipment, energy-efficiency grants for low-income communities and senior/youth centers.

 

Foundation dollars may assist in purchasing smart thermostats for those members who can’t afford one or other energy-efficiency improvements that lower consumption. These types of investments help members reduce energy usage – which leads to lower bills and reduces SECO Energy’s peak demand. A reduction in demand reduces SECO’s wholesale power bill, lowers costs for all members and decreases the need to build new power plants.

 

We’re revising the way members are enrolled in the program. See options to unenroll below if you choose not to participate. For those members already enrolled in Pennies from Heaven to have your bill rounded up to the nearest dollar – thank you! At year-end, you and your fellow members will automatically be transitioned to enrollment in the SECO Energy Foundation. Your bill will continue to be rounded up monthly, and the SECO Energy Foundation will devote the extra pennies toward initiatives like those listed above. The average donation per member whose bill is rounded up is $6 annually.

 

There are four convenient ways to unenroll. Just let us know by December 31, 2022.

1. Email Customer Service
2. Call 352-793-3801
3. Write to us at P.O. Box 301, Sumterville, FL 33585 ATTN: Corp Comm
4. Use the opt-out slip below and mail it with your bill

 

To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation before making your decision, read the SECO Energy Foundation Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation. The Foundation will begin accepting grant applications for the initiative categories beginning January 4, 2023.