CITGO refinery donates 60 computers to help unemployed

LEMONT — The CITGO Lemont Refinery donated 60 desktop computers to the POWER Connection, a community organization that works to “Empower People for Life.”

The equipment will be used as part of the POWER Connection’s training courses designed to help men and women seeking employment. POWER Connection and the CITGO Lemont Refinery are working toward eradicating poverty by providing resources to neighbors in need and helping them get the credentials necessary to succeed.

“There are very few programs or places from which people can seek these tools and skills to build an actual foundation to change their lives for the better,” said Pete Colarelli, government and public affairs manager for the CITGO Lemont Refinery. “It is inspiring to see the wonderful staff there give so much to benefit so many people in need. Their commitment to helping others aligns with the CITGO philosophy of giving back to your community and helping others. Special recognition goes to Craig Billie, our IT Manager in Lemont who facilitated the donation.”

The POWER Connection offers training in a range of subjects including resume writing, interviewing skills, computer programming, budgeting assistance and more. Many of the organization’s computer students are women — mothers and grandmothers who have either been displaced from manufacturing or are trying to get back into the workforce since the kids are now in school.

“The CITGO Lemont Refinery’s generous gift will go such a long way. We are extremely grateful for their help because these difficult economic times have put so many people at our doorstep with few resources,” said Jerry Basel, executive director of POWER Connection. “The contribution will make a huge difference, and will allow us to make sure more people in the community are in a position to succeed. It is help we will be able to use for years to come.”