When severe storms and flooding moved through our region, many families were left dealing with uncertainty, damage and the long road to recovery. In moments like these, having the right people and resources in place can make all the difference. That's why the Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) Foundation is proud to support the local agencies that help keep our communities safe before, during and after emergencies.

In Elkhart County, the I&M Foundation helped the county's Emergency Management Agency purchase a dozen new emergency response radios after officials identified a need to replace aging equipment. While they may look like simple tools, these radios play a critical role during emergencies by helping first responders stay connected and share information quickly. The upgrade also ensures different emergency agencies can communicate with one another more easily, helping teams work together to keep everyone safe when it matters most.

"We are truly grateful to the Indiana Michigan Power Foundation for its incredible generosity and donation to Elkhart County EMA," said Jennifer Tobey, Executive Director of Elkhart County Emergency Management. "Their support demonstrates a powerful commitment to our community and to the people who work every day to keep Elkhart County safe. Thank you for standing with us."

The support extends beyond Elkhart County. Across northeast Indiana, the I&M Foundation has helped communities better prepare for emergencies by supporting projects such as a new tornado siren, a mass casualty response vehicle and more emergency response radios.

While these resources may not always be visible, their impact is. They help emergency managers respond more quickly, communicate more effectively and better protect the families, neighborhoods and communities we live in.

"At its heart, storm preparedness is about neighbors looking out for neighbors," said Annie Smith, external affairs manager for the Greater South Bend, Elkhart and Southwest Michigan area. "When communities have strong partnerships and the right resources in place, they're better prepared to respond when severe weather strikes. We're proud to support the Elkhart County EMA team and the important work they do to keep our communities safe."

Supporting local emergency preparedness is just one of the ways I&M is active in the communities we call home. In 2025, the I&M Foundation provided support to 137 agencies and nonprofit organizations across Indiana and Michigan. At the same time, I&M employees contributed more than 4,100 volunteer hours, helping strengthen the places where our customers, employees and families live, work and grow.

Be Prepared

Residents can take steps today to be ready for severe weather and possible power outages:

• Stay connected with I&M. Keep your phone number and email address up to date for your I&M Account so you can receive outage updates and important alerts.
• Secure outdoor items before a storm. Bring in or tie down lawn furniture, umbrellas, toys, grills, trampolines and other loose items that could be blown into homes, vehicles or power lines during high winds.
• Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume a fallen line is energized. Keep people and pets away and report it immediately to local authorities or I&M at 1-800-311-4634.

For more preparedness tips, visit IndianaMichgianPower.com/Weather.