Commonwealth Electric Company of the Midwest proudly supports organizations that make a meaningful difference in the communities where we live and work. Through the Commonwealth Cares Initiative, The Hope Center for Kids was selected to receive a $30,000 donation after being nominated by Sarah DeWispelare of the Omaha Engineering team.
Founded in 1998, The Hope Center for Kids works to inspire hope in the lives of youth and families through education, employability, collaboration and faith. The organization provides a safe after-school and summer environment where children and youth can receive academic support, participate in youth development and faith-based learning opportunities, and enjoy a hot meal. Its programming and nutrition services reach approximately 1,650 youth and children each year.
While attending college, Sarah volunteered at The Hope Center for Kids for two years, tutoring students once a week from elementary through high school. She also volunteered during the organization’s Christmas Shopping Event and helped with projects such as repainting walls and reorganizing the library.
“Ultimately, they all wanted to do their very best, and sometimes just needed a little encouragement or validation that they were doing it correctly. Showing those kids that they mattered, and their ideas or thoughts were valid, made me feel good every day when I left,” said Sarah.
Sarah’s connection to The Hope Center has also grown to include her Commonwealth coworkers. In April, members of the Engineering/VDC group volunteered to clean and reorganize an art room, restoring the space for students to create. Sarah said everyone left the experience with positive feedback.
“We simply couldn’t serve the 300+ kids who come through our doors each day without community partners like Commonwealth Electric. Because of this generous gift, we can continue helping our kids graduate high school, become employable, and learn about the love of God. We are incredibly grateful for Commonwealth Electric’s partnership,” said Turner Schenzel, executive director.
The Hope Center’s impact reaches well beyond its after-school programming. Its services include tutoring and educational activities, youth development opportunities, employability training, internships and externships, meals and snacks, and weekly food totes. During the summer, The Hope Center extends its hours to give young people additional access to a safe and positive environment.
Commonwealth Cares reflects our commitment to being a force for positive change in the communities where we live and work. Through charitable giving and community involvement, the program supports organizations that are making a meaningful difference and helps illuminate the lives of those around us. By investing in causes that matter to our employees and the communities we serve, Commonwealth Cares puts our commitment to Customers, Employees, Character and Mastery into action beyond the work we do every day.
