Duke Energy grants more than $5,000 to Local Non-profits

Duke Energy’s World of Energy Education Center at Oconee Nuclear Station Thursday presented more than $5,000 to the organizations of the top four winning trees of its Festival of Trees display. In first place, the Cosmopolitan Woman’s Club received a $2,500 check for its nonprofit organization of choice, Collins Children’s Home. For the first time, this year, Duke Energy increased the amount given to each nonprofit organization and included a fourth-place winner in the contest. Second place, The Tribble Center, received $1,500 for its nonprofit organization. Third place, Oconee County Humane Society, received $1,000. Century 21 Hometown Realtors received $500 for fourth place, supporting Foothills Care Center. The Festival of Trees is a free, public display of more than 20 beautifully decorated, pre-lit trees. During the month of December, members of the public voted on their favorite tree. “We are proud to support nonprofits in the Upstate, but we’re as proud of the many individuals, groups, institutions and businesses who decorated the trees to help their chosen charities for the World of Energy Festival of Trees,” World of Energy Manager Chris Rimel said. “The grant amounts are something we evaluate each year, and we are pleased to help the winning nonprofits with more funds and more places.” The World of Energy has hosted the Festival of Trees display for five years. This year, more than 1,400 votes were cast for favorite trees throughout the month of December. New this year, the World of Energy included several other events, including a holiday gathering in November for local artisans and vendors to showcase Christmas items during photos with Santa. Also, in 2017, the World of Energy became a North Pole mail stop for letters to Santa. Those who would like to inquire about decorating a tree in 2018 can email [email protected] or call 864-873-4600. There is no charge to decorate a tree. Registration will occur in the fall of 2018.