LAND O’ LAKES, FL –The SECO Energy Foundation is pleased to announce a $20,000 grant awarded to the Pasco Education Foundation in support of their Take Stock in Children program. This funding will enable the Pasco County Foundation to enhance and expand various workshops aimed at empowering students through mentoring, academic support, and life skills development.

The Take Stock in Children program is dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty by providing deserving students with scholarships, mentorship, and hope for a brighter future. The workshops funded by this grant will focus on preparing students for college and career success, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to achieve their goals.

Mariah Delgado, SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director, commented on the significance of the grant: “By investing in the education and development of our youth, we are helping to build a stronger community. These workshops will equip students with essential skills and knowledge, opening doors to opportunities that will shape their futures.”

For more information about the Pasco Education Foundation and the Take Stock in Children program, please visit www.pascoeducationfoundation.org.

The SECO Energy Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local 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.

Groveland, FL – The SECO Energy Foundation is proud to announce a $25,000 grant to Building Blocks Ministries, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering adults with developmental disabilities. The grant will fund the creation of a state-of-the-art computer lab featuring adaptive equipment, virtual reality technology, and specialized communication tools. These enhancements will greatly expand opportunities for learning, personal growth, and community engagement.

Founded in 2005, Building Blocks Ministries has served as a resource and beacon of hope for individuals with disabilities across Central Florida. As a Florida Medicaid Provider working closely with the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Florida Department of Transportation, and Florida Department of Elder Affairs, BBM’s day training program equips adults, ages 22 to 70+, with essential life skills. “By integrating technology into our day training program, we’re opening new doors for our participants,” said Paula Whetro, Executive Director at Building Blocks Ministries. “From adaptive keyboards and voice-controlled software to VR simulations and tablets with communication apps, these tools will help our clients sharpen their skills, build social connections, and explore interests in a safe, inclusive environment.”

Mariah Delgado, SECO Energy Foundation Executive Director, highlighted the importance of this initiative: “Our mission is to strengthen communities by investing in organizations that elevate the quality of life for our neighbors. With this grant, we’re helping Building Blocks Ministries provide the adaptive tools and resources adults with developmental disabilities need to learn, grow, and thrive.”

For more information about Building Blocks Ministries and their programs, visit www.buildingblocksministries.org

About SECO Energy Foundation
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.

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.

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.

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.