POWERGRAMS

4 APSO Newsletter in 1997 gave capsule of another successful year. "At Alabama Power, our mission is about more than providing reliable electricity to our customers – it's about ensuring a brighter future for all of Alabama," Smith said. "Our power is in our people. APSO is an employee-driven service organization that is a force for improving communities across our state and for positively impacting the lives of Alabamians." APSO makes impact on employees and state For many employees, APSO is about working as a team and giving back to communities. That's the case for Shenita Baker, Magic City APSO president and a customer service representative at the West Jefferson Office in Birmingham Division. "Even though the time we put in may seem small, it brings joy to our hearts while making a difference," said Baker, who chaired Magic City's King Day service projects in February. "I've been able to learn about new organizations and get involved with those programs. The people we assist are always thankful, and the ability to put a smile on their face is priceless. I realize that nonprofits work with limited staff, so they look for assistance from APSO and other organizations. Our assistance allows nonprofits to survive and continue to provide a service to the community. That's a big deal. "Being a member of APSO, we can bring along our family members," Baker added. "Our family gets to experience APSO's culture and the impact we have within our communities. APSO members have heart, the drive to do good and to inspire, and a willingness to give." Barry Chapter's Stacy Simmons Walley believes APSO led her to where she has needed to be. Before she worked at Alabama Power, Walley tried volunteering but didn't have a structured outlet or team to bring her ideas to life. She joined APSO during her first week working at Plant Barry. "Through APSO, I've discovered more ways to serve Elmer Harris and friends strumming up support for APSO in the 1990s. Patsy Topazi, left, watches rescued animal being hand-fed.

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