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Insights > Plant Employees Partner with Local Business to Deliver Early Christmas for School Students
Plant Employees Partner with Local Business to Deliver Early Christmas for School Students
11/18/2015
On a recent morning, Mrs. Kandy Spurlin's seventh-grade science class got a surprise visit and a good reason to suspend their studies, if for just a few minutes. Three employees from the Hot Spring Energy Facility, located five miles from Ouachita High School, distributed supplies along with an encouraging message for students to stay plugged in to their teachers and their studies.
"It was a little like Christmas!" exclaimed counselor Amy Fulmer.
"I was thrilled to be contacted by David Porter regarding assistance for our students," said Fulmer. Porter, a father of three teenagers, works as a production technician and serves as the plant's diversity and inclusion liaison. He asked for help in identifying what students needed the most.
"With eight class periods in a day and a unique list for each subject," said Fulmer, "that adds up quickly, and often students find themselves without important supplies needed to complete homework or projects."
Porter spearheaded a charitable effort his co-workers embraced, raising over $400 in donations used to purchase supplies for students in need.
Todd Gallagher, the plant manager, praised the employees for their collective effort. "Four-hundred dollars may not sound like much, but, considering there are currently only 20 employees at Hot Spring, I am very proud of the participation."
Greg Tinin, the plant's planning and scheduling coordinator, reached out to Kelly Verble, a 34-year office supplies veteran and sales manager at Pettus Office Products in Hot Springs. Tinin secured a discount, allowing the plant's donation to reach even more students, and shared in the experience of giving with a community partner.
"When Greg contacted me I was honored to help," said Verble. "Pettus Office Products has been doing business with Entergy for years, and I discounted the prices almost to cost for this effort for the kids. I was proud to help."
Fulmer, the school counselor, says, with Entergy's help, the students have the tools necessary to take pride in their work and enhance their learning experience. She's excited about the possibility of employees speaking to students about their experiences working in the utility industry.
"David, Todd, and their team introduced ideas of visiting with our students during Career Night and offering tours," said Fulmer. "I believe that Entergy has much to offer our students, and look forward to this partnership."
