As the holidays approach, many look forward to time with family and friends, feast and festive traditions. Unfortunately, some of those are not always possible, but with support from the community, and partnerships that provides hands to help, the holiday season can be a bit brighter.

Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) staff strive to come together to assist organizations within our community and provide service to our neighbors. Whether close to home or miles away, a simple act of compassion can go a long way. And this was evident at a recent opportunity to volunteer at Fort Wayne’s Rescue Mission. 

Founded in 1903, the Rescue Mission is a faith-based nonprofit organization providing restorative care to men, women and children experiencing a homeless crisis. Located in downtown Fort Wayne, their ministry serves Allen County and its eleven surrounding counties. To support their efforts, volunteers, specifically with meal service and prep, are critical.

Together, I&M volunteers spent the day, for some beginning at 6 a.m., to prep and serve a day's worth of meals at the Rescue Mission. An opportunity to serve members of the community during the holiday season – and beyond.

“I&M employees generously share their time and resources to serve others year-round. This opportunity with the Rescue Mission is one example of how they came together to ensure the needs of a neighbor are met during the holidays,” said Stephanny Smith, I&M Director of Communications. “I&M is incredibly grateful for this partnership and so many others within the communities our employees call home.” 

The partnership between I&M and the Rescue Mission goes back several years. This year, it was expanded by sponsoring the holiday meals, around both Thanksgiving and Christmas, with support from the American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation. 

Visit our community page for more information on how I&M is supporting our local communities from Rockport, Ind. to Bridgman, Mich. and how staff are making a difference through volunteering.