Nicor Gas opens applications for environmental stewardship initiative grants
Expanding on its commitment to protect the environment by caring for natural spaces in the community through investing in nonprofit organizations that contribute to clean air, conservation, preservation of green space and sustainable activities, Nicor Gas is announcing $100,000 in funding to support environmental stewardship programs.
Starting today, community organizations and nonprofits may apply for these environmental stewardship grants from Nicor Gas to support their initiatives. Applications are available at www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving through May 31 with funding decisions by June 30. Selected nonprofits and community organizations will be eligible to receive up to $5,000 in grant funds this year.
"At Nicor Gas, we are committed to being good environmental stewards and actively working to preserve our state's natural legacy," said Jackie Nagel, manager of Community Engagement at Nicor Gas. "Investing in organizations that share our focus to preserve Illinois' green space, conservation efforts and sustainability is one way we're helping ensure future generations enjoy the benefit these projects bring for years to come."
As the largest natural gas provider in Illinois, Nicor Gas is committed to creating, maintaining and sustaining 10,000 acres of open space in its service area, and helping to achieve equitable access to cultural, educational and recreational spaces.
Last year, the company announced a sustainability initiative to support the conservation of 10,000 acres of open land across northern Illinois, including inaugural grants to support:
• Chicago Region Trees Initiative: An initiative of The Morton Arboretum that aims to increase the Chicago region's tree canopy, reduce threats to trees, enhance oak ecosystems and inspire people to value trees and create a more sustainable future.
• Get Growing Foundation: Works to inspire, educate and motivate the next generation of gardeners. Last year, the Foundation partnered with the Joliet Park District to provide 500 native starter plants.
Over the decades, Nicor Gas has engaged in prairie restoration projects, participated in biodiversity-recovery efforts and supported conservation-focused organizations like the Chicago Zoological Society, Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens, The Conservation Foundation and more.
To submit an application for the environmental stewardship grants, visit www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving.
To learn more about Nicor Gas' commitment to the environment, visit NicorGas.com/Environment.
About Nicor Gas
Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Nicor Gas serves more than 2.2 million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit nicorgas.com.
About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE:SO), America's premier energy company. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.3 million natural gas customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states with approximately 666,000 retail customers through its companies that market natural gas. Other businesses include investments in interstate pipelines and ownership and operation of natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit southerncompanygas.com.