Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) delivers reliable electricity to more than 160 communities in 30 counties across Indiana and Michigan. Aside from powering homes and businesses, we also empower our communities. From providing education programs for children, donating necessities to community organizations and our employees volunteering time in their neighborhoods – it is our priority to ensure a bright, safe future. 

I&M strives to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve. In 2023, that meant serving over 100 local nonprofit organizations and impacting countless individuals. It also ensured providing nearly $308,000 in support of local nonprofit agencies.

“Working alongside our communities and helping the causes most impactful to them, aligns with our commitment to making brighter futures possible for those we serve every day,” said Katie Davis, vice president of External Affairs and Customer Experience. “We are proud to serve our customers and our communities, and we are honored to support many of these initiatives in the years to come.”

Additionally, the American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation provided $1.8 million in grants to support nonprofits across our service territory. I&M works closely with the foundation to help target specific needs in each community, which in 2023, combined with I&M’s contributions, resulted in funds exceeding $2 million to assist local organizations.

From Super Shot in Fort Wayne to the Boys and Girls Clubs in Indiana and Michigan, the foundation and I&M have supported many worthwhile efforts related to STEM education; hunger, housing and human needs; racial and social justice; and community vitality. This included a grant to the Fort Wayne Urban League to provide summer STEM Camp for youth to receive hands-on opportunities during summer vacation.

Education remains a strong focus for giving. In 2023, over 100 South Bend Community School Corporation teachers received necessary supplies for their classroom at no cost through the Teacher Store, presented by the AEP Foundation. The foundation also awarded 36 students with new laptops as part of the Technology Fund for the nonprofit C.A.R.E University, which provides graduating Elkhart students with necessities for their post-secondary education. 

Focus on supporting vibrant and strong communities were also recognized. With help from a grant, Community Transportation Network purchased a new vehicle for its fleet, which will serve several members from the community in the years to come. This vehicle promotes the organization’s continued mission of independence and focus on overall health. 

I&M continued its push for initiatives helping the environment, including donating more than 8,000 four-packs of LED bulbs, 10,000 three-packs of window insulation kits and over 10,000 door and window weatherproofing materials to foodbanks in Southwest Michigan to help customers conserve energy.

Across our organization, employees worked closely with the United Way locations in Indiana and southwest Michigan on various giving campaigns and volunteer opportunities. Staff continued to volunteer their time at nonprofits, in schools, on boards and at other community engagements. This was in addition to active participation in food, clothing and toy drives throughout the year.

With the coming of a new year, I&M’s commitment to supporting growth and the initiatives of the communities we serve will not change. For more information and to follow the work we do in 2024, visit the community section of our website or follow I&M on social media.