Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) provides safe, reliable energy to customers across two states, 30 counties and over 160 cities/towns. While powering homes and businesses, we also power communities for growth and success. From education to housing and human need, the impact from last year will be seen well into the future.

In 2024, I&M provided $427,000 to support local charitable organizations and economic development efforts. That same year, the American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation contributed over $1.7 million in grants supporting organizations throughout its 11-state territory. Working closely with the AEP Foundation, I&M targets specific needs within each local community, supporting neighborhoods our customers – and team – call home.  

“I&M is grateful for its role within our local communities, supporting organizations that drive meaningful, long-lasting impact,” said Katie Davis, I&M vice president of External Affairs and Customer Experience. “Each organization we partner with has a unique story and we are honored to be even one small piece of that.”

In 2024, some of these opportunities within various communities throughout I&M included:  

Southwest Michigan

The Benton Harbor and St. Joseph communities gathered to celebrate groundbreaking ceremonies for future monuments in each town. Coordinated by the Unified Civic Monuments Project, these monuments will focus on the history connecting the “twin cities” and the importance of the next generation into their future. 

Read: ‘Bridging’ Together the Next Generation

In late April, members of the Bridgman community cut a bright green ribbon, highlighting the competition of Toth Street Park. Announced in January 2023, support from the surrounding community and a $75,000 grant from the AEP Foundation promoted the renewed vitality of the space and its impact on local families.

Read: Updated Community Space Set for Summer

Central Indiana

Through the AEP Foundation and I&M, the Muncie Mission received a new panel delivery van to support efforts to secure food donations from local restaurants, food producers and distribution centers. Additional support from the AEP Foundation ensured warm meals during the Mission’s Annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. These events served over 1,000 individuals in need.

Read: Supporting Neighbors Helping Neighbors

South Bend Area

The AEP Foundation Elementary Field Trip Fund, in partnership with South Bend Alumni Association (SBAA), make classroom experiences more accessible. Students can now gain exposure to new people and ideas – something a textbook alone cannot provide. “Financial assistance for field trips can often be restricted for schools, so with this fund, we hope to make these experiences more equitable, accessible and meaningful for students,” said Mona Livingston, I&M Business Operations Support manager. 

Read: A Field Trip Experience to Last a Lifetime

The Elkhart Education Foundation (EEF) sparks interest with students about STEM-focused futures through its SPARK Program. To provide related experiences for students, the AEP Foundation and members of the South Bend/Elkhart District offer hands-on opportunities to show what a STEM-focused career may include.

Read: Mentorships that SPARK Possibilities for the Future

Fort Wayne Area

I&M has supported local Habitat for Humanity organizations for several years. From grant funding to our volunteers, we understand the impact these projects have on the community. During 2024, members of our Fort Wayne team assisted in three different builds around the city, completing projects from painting to installing siding. 

Read: I&M is ‘Building’ Hope for our Neighbors

Science Central hosts its Free Admission Day every September, made possible by the AEP Foundation. This day provides access to several hands-on, STEM-focused exhibits for visitors of all ages – at no cost. By opening doors to these opportunities, young students are exposed to how jobs in STEM fields are becoming more abundant with evolving technology in our lives.

Read: Hands-on STEM Experiences Inspire the Next Generation

Visit our community page for more information on how I&M is supporting our local communities and how staff are making a difference through volunteering for their neighbors.