AEP donates $150 grand to B&G Club

Special to the PRESS

Boys & Girls ClubThe AEP Foundation is helping make the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Madre even cooler to area kids.

The American Electric Power (AEP) Foundation contributed $150,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Madre in Port Isabel. Julio Reyes, AEP Texas vice president of External Affairs, made a check presentation during a recognition event held Tuesday, March 26, at the facility. The contribution will be used to replace the air conditioning system, replace the flooring in the gymnasium and make other needed repairs.

The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Madre is part of nationwide organizations that help youth of all backgrounds develop the qualities needed to become responsible citizens and leaders. For 22 years, The Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Madre has been in the forefront of youth development, working with young people from disadvantaged economic, social and family circumstances. They have actively sought to enrich the lives of girls and boys whom other youth agencies have had difficulty reaching to positively shape their futures.

Located at 190 Port Road, the 20-year-old facility sustained considerable damage in 2008 during Hurricane Dolly. Although some repairs have been made since then, water damage and continued use of the building have made the need for improvements crucial. Fifty-percent of the facility’s air conditioning system is not working, and damage to the building has greatly undermined its energy efficiency.

Julio Reyes noted that American Electric Power, parent company of AEP Texas, created the AEP Foundation in 2005 to continue the tradition of corporate philanthropy of AEP and its regional utilities and to support and play an active, positive role in the communities where AEP employees live and work.

“The Boys and Girls Club of the Laguna Madre clearly meets that criteria,” Reyes said. “Back when I was stationed in this area, I had the honor of serving as the incoming board president when this building first opened. I’ve seen first-hand the incredible work this organization undertakes on behalf of the community. Today, more than 725 young people at risk and in need are talking advantage of programs, activities and services provided by the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Madre.

“Words cannot adequately express the depth of our gratitude to the AEP Foundation for this most generous gift,” said Bettina R. Tolin, chief volunteer officer for the club. “Their investment in the lives of our children will enable us to restore our facility and will enhance our ability to serve the youth of our community in a safe and positive environment.”

Read this story in the March 28 edition of the Port Isabel-South Padre Press, or subscribe to our E-Edition by clicking here.

Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2013/03/28/aep-donates-150-grand-to-bg-club/

1 comment

    • Gary Shamblen on March 30, 2013 at 5:11 am
    • Reply

    What other entities has AEP Foundation donated to since it’s inception in 2005 and by how much?

    What other entities have received donations from AEP and by how much? What is the application process? How are recipients determined?

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