POWERGRAMS

11 ENERGIZERS Calling all Energizers: Stay in touch through online meetings, phone calls For many Energizers, one of the hardest things about the pandemic is the inability to see old friends and co-workers, to share a laugh, a hug and lunch. As the retiree volunteer organization closed in on 19 months without in-person meetings, members are keeping in touch through virtual meetings, and by email and phone. Chapter leaders on Sept. 15 took part in a virtual meeting via Zoom during the Fall Leadership Conference. Board members discussed the 2022 Energizers state project and fundraising efforts for nonprofits. Southeast Energizers President Vann Bradshaw said that COVID-19 has made a big difference in how his group meets. During the best of circumstances, Southeast members enjoy communing and sharing ideas, which isn't possible during the pandemic. "All of us want to be together," Bradshaw said. "These are the people who built Alabama Power. We all have that common thread. We are part of the community and we recognize that these 501(c)(3)s still need the funds that we raise for them. They still have people who need our help. "Our hope is that things improve by December," he added. "Our goal is to have a December meeting, if that's possible, but only if we can do it safely. We won't expose anyone to illness. If we're not all able to be in one room, our goal is to have informative programs on Zoom." Southeast Energizers communications chair Allen White sets up virtual chapter meetings, sending instructions by email so all members have easy access. Birmingham Division Chapter President Libba Ellison ensures contact with her group as she forwards information from Alabama Power. This Southeast Energizers Chapter President Vann Bradshaw hopes members will meet online until they can meet again in person. Energizers met in person frequently before pandemic.

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