Xcel Energy Foundation awards $591k in grants to Texas, New Mexico nonprofits

AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) – The Xcel Energy Foundation announced it awarded $591,800 to 53 nonprofits in Texas and New Mexico focused on science, technology, engineering and math career pathways, environmental sustainability and community vitality.

The awards were funded through the Xcel Energy Foundation’s Focus Area Grants program, which supports programs in those three categories:

• STEM Career Pathways grants focus on K-12 project-based learning experiences, post-secondary financial aid and support, diverse and inclusive learning environments, and training and upskilling services for STEM careers;
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• Environmental Sustainability grants focus on disaster preparedness, community green space projects, environmental stewardship and conservation education, habitat restoration programs, and natural resource conservation with an emphasis on water conservation; and
• Community Vitality grants focus on case management and support services for underserved populations related to employment, entrepreneurial endeavors with a focus on diverse business leaders, emplifying diverse artists and art forms, and community outreach activities.

“The strength of any community comes from the people and organizations working every day to make it better,” said Adrian Rodriguez, president of Xcel Energy – Texas, New Mexico. “These nonprofits are helping our neighbors gain skills, access opportunities and improve their quality of life. We’re proud to support their efforts and invest in the future of our region.”

Xcel Energy representatives said the grant program is among several ways the foundation supports service area communities, alongside matching funds for employee gifts to nonprofits like the United Way and offering matching monetary donations for employee volunteer hours.

More information about the Xcel Energy Foundation can be found online here. More information on the foundation’s grant program and application process can be found here.