With help from volunteers and local organizations, 800-plus kids in Cass County are ready for the upcoming school year. Geared with a new backpack full of school supplies, these students will have the tools they need to succeed thanks to the United Way of Southwest Michigan's School Supply Spectacular. But sorting countless school supplies and packing numerous bags would require work from a dedicated group of volunteers to complete.  

Cue Indiana Michigan Power's (I&M) team of volunteers. This year's event took place at four different locations across Cass County August 6-7. To get over 800 backpacks filled with supplies in early August is a tall order, meaning the more hands to help, the smoother the packing process. Employees from I&M's Michigan district did just that, spending a day to complete assembly before bags reached the hands of anxious students.

"Whether boots on the ground restoring power after a storm or distributing something like backpacks to students, serving the community is a significant part of our jobs," said Donny Williams, Manager of Distribution Systems for the southwest Michigan districts. "We are grateful to partner with the United Way of Southwest Michigan to support families during the return to school." 

I&M has long partnered with United Way organizations, especially in Southwest Michigan. From raking leaves for neighbors as part of the Rake-a-Difference opportunity to supporting access to nutritious, local food in Benton Harbor, our team is honored to make an impact in the same communities we call home.

Read more about how we are partnering and supporting the communities we serve by visiting the community section on our website.