POWERGRAMS

24 The pandemic has ushered in a time of uncertainty and increasing needs among families who have lost financial means, putting ever more strain on groups that help those in need. To support its local communities, the Alabama Power Service Organization (APSO) held its first virtual fundraiser in 2020. Southern Division APSO member and Montgomery Field Service Representative Broderick Smith co-hosted an hourlong livestream event Nov. 17 that highlighted the work done by APSO volunteers throughout the year. The campaign raised $49,000 statewide in support of APSO's nonprofit partners, helping ensure those groups could meet community needs during the holiday season and beyond. APSO state President Kodi Belford said members must find new ways to help the communities where they live and work. Before the fundraiser, each chapter designated funds for selected nonprofits. "One person can make a difference but, collectively, we can make more of a difference and make a larger impact in our communities by working together," said Belford, a member of the Southeast/Farley Chapter for 10 years. "Our virtual fundraiser was the capstone event of APSO's volunteer efforts for 2020," said Belford, Site Sourcing supervisor at Farley Nuclear Plant. "With the pandemic, we didn't have the ability to get out in our communities in a physical way. But our communities need us. The fundraiser couldn't replace some of the projects we do in the communities, but it's the best we could provide for both worlds." Belford said APSO had a twofold goal: "We wanted to help with holiday needs and provide some aid to help their operations run a little smoother in the coming year." David Hanks, executive director of the Wiregrass Food Bank in Dothan, is very appreciative of the work done by APSO to help at the holidays and into 2021. The virtual fundraiser – through gifts by the Southeast/Farley Chapter – will allow the nonprofit to provide meals for less-fortunate families. Hanks said the pandemic has brought the food bank unexpected expenses. He said the chapter's gift "came at the right time" to help offset food storage costs. In testament to the dire need for food among many Dothan families, for the first time, Hanks was forced to rent several refrigerated tractor- trailers to hold perishable items. The trailers allow easy access APSO FIRST VIRTUAL FUNDRAISER HELPING COMMUNITY NEEDS INTO A NEW YEAR by Donna Cope APCO Employees Credit Union donated $15,000 to aid APSO's first virtual fundraiser.

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