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Category: Community

All Wired Up Website Pic
CommunityPress Releases
January 3, 2025

Empowering Young Innovators: SECO Energy Foundation Funds All Wired Up Robotics Team with $5,000 Grant

Groveland, FL – The SECO Energy Foundation is thrilled to support All Wired Up, a South Lake County-based youth robotics team, with a $5,000 grant. This funding will help the team continue inspiring middle and high school students to embrace science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) while equipping them with vital career and leadership skills.

Led by President and Lead Mentor Mark Vitek, All Wired Up is part of the FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC), an internationally recognized program that challenges students to design, build, and program industrial-sized robots to compete in complex field games. The team brings together students from local public and private schools, as well as homeschoolers, creating an experience where innovation and teamwork thrive.

“We don’t just build robots—we build relationships, friendships, and futures,” said Mark Vitek. “This grant from SECO Energy Foundation will help us provide hands-on STEM training and real-world engineering experiences to our team members, preparing them for success in technology-driven careers.”

As a non-school-based community team, All Wired Up operates year-round, engaging students in both competitive and off-season robotics challenges. The program emphasizes not only technical skills but also leadership, communication, and creativity. Students are tasked with fundraising, designing a team brand, and solving engineering problems within tight deadlines, simulating real-world challenges faced by engineers and technologists.

“All Wired Up embodies the innovative and forward-thinking spirit we love to support,” said Mariah Delgado, SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director. “Their commitment to empowering students through robotics and teamwork will have a lasting impact on the participants, and we’re proud to invest in their future.”

For more information about All Wired Up, visit  https://team8057.com/.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local initiatives within the community. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that address the needs of the community, focusing on areas such as health and human services, public safety, veterans, STEM, energy and education. 

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
December 17, 2024

SECO Energy Foundation Sparks Conservation Education at Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens with $5,000 Grant

Williston, FL -12/17/2024 – The SECO Energy Foundation is excited to announce the awarding of a $5,000 grant to Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens, a nonprofit located in Levy County dedicated to environmental preservation and education. The grant will support the construction of a new Conservation Education Center. This initiative aligns with the Foundation’s mission to promote environmental stewardship within the community.

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens is an extraordinary 20-acre botanical garden founded by Dr. Raymond Webber in a reclaimed lime rock quarry over 30 years ago. Since opening to the public in 2014, the garden has become a popular destination, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually. Currently in the design phase, the new Conservation Education Center will serve as a hub for public education and gatherings. It will feature a meeting room with a 100-person capacity for hosting workshops, clinics, and public programs on Florida geology, the Florida Aquifer, and conservation efforts. The center will also include a museum showcasing the area’s history and geology, from the formation of the Florida Aquifer to the reclamation of the abandoned quarry.

Linda Hall, District 7 Board Member of the SECO Energy Foundation, added: “Supporting Cedar Lakes Woods & Gardens aligns perfectly with our mission to foster environmental stewardship and education. Their new Conservation Education Center will play a key role in educating the public about our natural resources and the importance of preserving them.”

For more information about Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens, visit www.cedarlakesandgarden.com.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local charitable initiatives. The Foundation awards grants quarterly to organizations that focus on health and human services, veterans, public safety, STEM, energy, environmentalism, and education. For more information about the SECO Energy Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.SECOFoundation.org.

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
December 16, 2024

Brighter Holidays: SECO Energy Foundation Awards $5,000 to Charity Across South Lake

Clermont, FL -12/16/2024 – The SECO Energy Foundation is proud to award a $5,000 grant to Charity Across South Lake, a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to supporting families in south Lake County during times of hardship. This funding will enhance the organization’s efforts to bring joy to children during the holiday season.

Founded in 2020, Charity Across South Lake bridges the gap between nonprofits, schools, churches, civic groups, and local municipalities to ensure that families in need receive targeted assistance without duplication. By streamlining resources and collaborating directly with trusted partner organizations, the group enables families to focus on their essentials—like groceries, utilities, and prescriptions—without sacrificing the joy of a holiday celebration.

“Last year, we were able to provide Christmas gifts and books to over 4,000 children,” said Michelle Michnoff, President of Charity Across South Lake. “With support from the SECO Energy Foundation, we’ll be able to continue providing much-needed relief to families in our community, giving them hope during challenging times.”

The organization works in collaboration with local partners such as Find, Feed & Restore, Hands of Hope, and Headstart Clermont, among others, to ensure families are equipped with the tools and resources to build brighter futures. Additionally, its partnership with major retailers amplifies its impact by securing discounts to maximize toy and supply purchases for the community.

“Charity Across South Lake embodies the spirit of community, bringing people and organizations together to make a meaningful difference,” said Michael Hein, SECO Energy Foundation District 8 Board Member. “We are thrilled to support their efforts and help make the holidays brighter for so many families in need.”

For more information about Charity Across South Lake and its programs, visit www.acrosssouthlake.org.

About SECO Energy Foundation: The SECO Energy Foundation is committed to supporting local nonprofits that strengthen and uplift our local communities. Through targeted grant funding, the Foundation empowers organizations that create lasting, positive change in the lives of those they serve. For more information about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit www.SECOFoundation.org.

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
December 12, 2024

SECO Energy Foundation Awards Camp Boggy Creek $25,000 Grant

Eustis, FL – 12/14/2024 – The SECO Energy Foundation is proud to announce a $25,000 grant to Camp Boggy Creek, a nonprofit organization that provides transformative camp experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families. Located on a sprawling 232-acre property, Camp Boggy Creek offers a wide range of activities designed to enrich the physical and behavioral health of its campers. The funding will be used to purchase five electric golf carts, which will play a crucial role in transporting campers between activity areas ensuring their safety and comfort especially for those campers with significant health challenges.

“Our mission is to provide a safe, joyful, and life-changing experience for children with serious illnesses at no cost to their families,” said Dan Jurman, President/CEO of Camp Boggy Creek. “These electric golf carts will allow us to prioritize the safety and comfort of our campers. We’re grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for their generous support.”

Matthew Roudabush, SECO Energy Foundation Vice President/Director, highlighted the importance of supporting organizations like Camp Boggy Creek. “Camp Boggy Creek provides an incredible service to children and families who deserve every opportunity for joy and connection. This grant reflects our commitment to enhancing within our community,” said Roudabush.

For more information about Camp Boggy Creek and their programs, visit www.campboggycreek.org.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local charitable initiatives. The Foundation awards grants quarterly to organizations that focus on health and human services, veterans, public safety, STEM, energy, environmentalism, and education. For more information about the SECO Energy Foundation and its initiatives, visit www.SECOFoundation.org.

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
December 12, 2024

SECO Energy Foundation Awards UF Health Spanish Plaines Auxillary Foundation $25,000

The Villages, FL – November 14, 2024 – The UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation is honored to announce a generous $25,000 grant from the SECO Energy Foundation, awarded in support of the Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit (MSTU) program. This grant will bolster the Auxiliary Foundation’s ongoing efforts to enhance emergency stroke care in The Villages community, delivering life-saving medical assistance directly to patients in critical moments.

The MSTU is a state-of-the-art, fully equipped mobile medical unit specifically designed to diagnose and treat stroke patients on the scene. With advanced imaging technology, such as a 32-slice CT scanner (The first in the state of Florida), telemedicine equipment and medication specific to acute stroke treatment, the MSTU enables immediate assessment and treatment of strokes, significantly improving patient outcomes and reducing long-term disability. The unit is staffed with a CT Technologist, EMT Driver, Paramedic, RN specially trained in stroke care and a Stroke Neurologist via telemedicine.  With this funding from the SECO Energy Foundation, the UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation will continue to build essential resources, expand MSTU capabilities, and provide swift medical intervention during the crucial early stages of stroke.

“We are immensely grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for their commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting life-saving initiatives in our community,” said Erica Lebo, Executive Director/President at UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation.  “This funding will directly impact our ability to respond quickly to stroke emergencies, saving lives and providing comfort to those who need it most.”

SECO Energy Foundation Board Member, Jack Callahan said, “We are proud to support UF Health’s MSTU program. The Foundation’s goal is to improve our communities – this grant will help save lives and vastly improve the medical response for citizens who need urgent care after a debilitating stroke.”

For more information about the UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation and the Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit, please contact Cathy Reardon, Foundation Engagement Specialist, at 352.751.8871 or creardon@shands.ufl.edu.

About SECO Energy Foundation
The SECO Energy Foundation is dedicated to supporting charitable organizations that address key needs within SECO Energy’s service area. By partnering with local organizations, the Foundation aims to uplift communities through impactful initiatives that benefit the health, well-being, and resilience of residents across Central Florida.  To learn more about the SECO Energy Foundation, visit the website at https://secofoundation.org/.

About UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation
The UF Health Spanish Plaines Hospital Auxiliary Foundation is committed to enhancing healthcare services for the residents of The Villages and surrounding areas. Through partnerships, fundraising, and community engagement, the foundation supports critical healthcare initiatives, including the Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit, to provide timely and effective medical intervention.

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
November 26, 2024

SECO Energy Foundation Awards $5,000 Grant to LovExtension for Personal Care Supplies for Homebound Seniors

Tavares, FL – The SECO Energy Foundation is pleased to announce a $5,000 grant for LovExtension, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting homebound seniors and disabled adults in Lake, Sumter and Marion Counties. This grant will provide essential personal hygiene supplies to those who are often isolated and unable to access the care they need.

LovExtension is a vital resource for vulnerable populations in the community, offering not only material support, but also delivering food items and keeping in touch with individuals who may be living in solitude. Linda Krupski, one of the founding directors, says “We have 54 delivery routes that cover Lake County and the Villages each month.  As an all-volunteer organization, we use our own gas and time to deliver items to the homes. With the Foundation’s support, LovExtension will be able to continue its mission to enhance the quality of life for these individuals, ensuring they maintain dignity and well-being.”

“We are honored to support LovExtension in their efforts to serve our community’s seniors,” said Jack Callahan, SECO Energy Foundation Board Member. “This grant aligns with our commitment to improving the lives of those in need, and we believe it will make a significant impact on the health and happiness of those they serve.”

LovExtension’s dedication to delivering care packages, which include hygiene products and other essentials, helps to alleviate some of the challenges faced by homebound seniors. The organization’s work is crucial in fostering a sense of community and providing relief to those who are often overlooked. For more information about LovExtension and their programs, please visit www.LovExtension.com.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local initiatives within the community. The Foundation provides grants to organizations that address the needs of the community, focusing on areas such as health and human services, public safety, veterans, STEM, energy and education. For more information visit www.SECOFoundation.org.

 

By Mariah Delgado
SECO Energy Foundation Awards $25,000 Grant to UF Health Spanish Plaines Auxiliary Foundation (Website) (7 x 3.5 in) (750 x 200 px) (500 x 100 px) (300 x 100 px) (Website) (850 x 300 px)
CommunityPress Releases
November 25, 2024

From B-ball to Big Dreams, SECO Energy Foundation Supports Safe Space for At-Risk Youth with $21,475 Grant

Ocala, FL – 11/25/2024 – The SECO Energy Foundation is pleased to announce a $21,475 grant to Arnette House, a nonprofit organization that provides a 24/7 Emergency Youth shelter, group homes for teens, and non-residential counseling services. Founded in 1981, the organization has since grown into a vital resource for at-risk youth and families in North Central Florida, offering residential and non-residential programs at no cost.

The grant is for the resurfacing of the outdoor basketball court. Cheri Pettitt, CEO of Arnette House says, “The basketball court is not just a place for the kids to play; it is a place where teens facing challenges can open up and enjoy themselves. It is a vibrant hub that also doubles as event space for local organizations.” 

“We’re proud to support Arnette House with this grant,” said Daniel O’Rourke, Board Member of the SECO Energy Foundation. “The Arnette House is a vital community resource that provides a safe environment for youth in need. By enhancing the facilities, we’re helping the young people served by Arnette House to have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.”

For more information about Arnette House and its programs, visit www.arnettehouse.org.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting charitable initiatives within the SECO Energy service territory. The Foundation awards grants quarterly to organizations that focus on health and human services, veterans, public safety, STEM, energy, and education. Visit www.SECOFoundation.org for more information.

By Mariah Delgado
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CommunityPress Releases
April 30, 2024

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.”

Marion County United Way accepting $50,000. grant from SECO Energy Foundation

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.

By Amanda Richardson
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CommunityPress Releases
April 18, 2024

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.”

Delgado 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.

By Amanda Richardson
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CommunityPress Releases
April 9, 2024

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.

By Amanda Richardson