POWERGRAMS

20 APSO The 6,200 members of the Alabama Power Service Organization volunteered for more than 40,000 hours in 2018, evidence that employees companywide recognize the immense needs in their communities. About 150 members attended the 22nd annual APSO Leadership Conference. New state President Wells Cooner said it's important to reconnect with communities and learn about their needs. "As an organization, our vision and mission are the same," Cooner said. "The communities we serve, however, are very different. We're reconnecting with our members and renewing their understanding of our mission and refueling their passion of being a leader and volunteer in this great organization." At the conference, leaders assembled hygiene bags as part of APSO's state project to help citizens in need – the homeless, veterans, the elderly and underserved. The packs have soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes and other items. Each chapter took home 50 bags to give to nonprofits of their choice, and some bags went to Lee County storm victims. "It's a multiuse, versatile thing," Cooner said. "We made these bags so we could help address a need among a wide variety of nonprofits. It doesn't take something big to make a big difference." A new APSO app will allow members to track their volunteer hours and make project information available to everyone in the organization. Myla Calhoun, vice president of Charitable Giving and president of the Alabama Power Foundation, said APSO's goals align with the company's vision. Calhoun is proud of APSO members' dedication to improving the lives of Alabamians, pointing to volunteer hours last year. "As a company, Alabama Power uses its energy and resources to spread the power of good," Calhoun said. "APSO has that same purpose, in helping elevate our communities and their families as employees work together to improve the lives of our people and the futures of our children. We are motivated to serve our communities – it's part of APSO leaders renew commitment to serve by Donna Cope PHOTOS BY WYNTER BYRD Cooner Customer Services Executive Vice President Greg Barker complimented volunteers. Christina Jackson, Calhoun, Anna Catherine Roberson and Morgan Jackson.

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