Fitchburg, Massachusetts (April 26, 2005) - Unitil-Massachusetts' is requesting applications for the 2005 Community Grant, a $10,000 grant to be awarded annually to help nonprofits further important strategic projects and initiatives. The Community Grant is part of the Company's Community Development Program, which seeks to make a lasting positive impact in the communities it serves through a combination of support initiatives.
The application process is open to 501(c)(3) organizations located in or that serve a significant client base in Unitil's Massachusetts service territory, which includes Fitchburg, Townsend, Lunenburg, Ashby, Gardner, and Westminster.
"We are looking for proposals that will increase capacity, launch new programs, or cover costs of one-time projects," commented Heather Hughes, senior community development specialist. "This includes, but is not limited to, program planning and development, events and one-time programs, organizational development, and outreach programs."
Last year's Community Grant recipient was the Mt. Wachusett Community College Citizenship Academy, a 14-week session of two courses that introduces students to the worlds of higher education, civic engagement, and community service. The grant was used to give 20 high school juniors and seniors of Latino descent who live in Fitchburg the opportunity to attend the Citizenship Academy at no cost.
"Although our primary business is building, maintaining and operating the energy delivery infrastructure for our communities, we think it is also very important to develop the non-profit infrastructure of our communities which also delivers important services to people," said Robert G. Schoenberger, CEO/President of Unitil. "This grant is an integral part of our efforts to do the right thing for the community."
The deadline for proposals is June 30th. The application requirements are posted on Unitil's web site, www.unitil.com, or interested parties can contact Heather Hughes, senior community development specialist, at 603-773-6475 or by email, hughes@unitil.com, if they have questions regarding eligibility.
Unitil Corporation (AMEX:UTL) at www.unitil.com is a public utility holding company with subsidiaries providing electric service in New Hampshire, electric and gas service in Massachusetts and energy services throughout the Northeast.
Contact:
Heather Hughes
hughes@unitil.com
Corporate Office
Liberty Lane West
Hampton, NH 03842-1720
800/999-6501
