When companies like Entergy Texas, Inc. value the education, health and wellness, and financial independence of the people in their community, great things can happen. As a 2014 Pacesetter Company, the employees of Entergy grew their giving by an astounding 32% from the previous year. Their giving didn’t just come from their paychecks. They were able to accomplish their largest ever company total amount given through special fundraising events like the “Cold Water Challenge” conducted by senior staff members among others.

As their total giving reached record amounts in 2014, so did the use of their time and talents. Entergy Texas CEO, Sally Rainer, gives her time as a Montgomery County United Way board member and also served as the 2014 MCUW Campaign Chair.  Community Development Manager, Melissa Bochat, contributes and serves on the planning committee for MCUW’s “Women Who Rock”, a program giving scholarships to young moms allowing their children to attend daycare while the young women are able to continue their post-secondary education. Customer Service Specialist, Paula Odem volunteers on MCUW’s Financial Independence Impact Council, which oversees the strategic investment of funds to help improve the financial stability of the residents of Montgomery County.

As part of a team building exercise, many Entergy employees gathered for a Days of Caring event which included building bikes for a community outreach program serving homeless youth in our county.  Entergy employees were also large contributors to the annual “Socks and Undies” drive, a program donating clean socks and underwear to school-age children in preparation for the new school year.

Entergy Texas has developed a culture of giving, advocating, and volunteering. Because of the value placed on those 3 principals, countless needs have been met and opportunities have been created in our community. The Montgomery County United Way is proud to award Entergy Texas, Inc. with a 2014 Mitchell Energy & Development Company Heritage Award designation honoring their efforts in improving lives and creating lasting change in Montgomery County.

To learn more about MCUW and how you can get involved in the 2015 Montgomery County United Way Campaign log on to www.mcuw.org or contact Nicole Robinson Gauthier at Nicole@mcuw.org.