CenterPoint Energy Foundation, Inc.

Overview

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation, Inc. is a nonprofit organization established to support community development and sustainability efforts. It was founded in 2000 and focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the communities served by CenterPoint Energy, a major utility company in the United States.

Purpose and Activities

The foundation primarily invests in two strategic areas: Community Vitality and Education. Within Community Vitality, it supports initiatives related to affordable housing, environmental conservation, and community revitalization. The Education focus includes literacy programs, STEM education, and workforce development initiatives, with a particular emphasis on under-resourced communities.

The foundation aims to foster inclusive and sustainable communities by promoting equity and advancing social inclusion. It provides grants to eligible organizations that align with its mission and often prioritizes programs serving low- to moderate-income populations.

Funding Priorities

• Community Vitality:
  • Affordable Housing: Initiatives aimed at increasing access to quality, affordable, and energy-efficient housing.
  • Environment: Energy efficiency efforts, environmental conservation, and environmental education programs.
  • Thriving Communities: Quality of Place initiatives and resident-led projects enhancing neighborhood vitality.
• Education:
  • Literacy: Programs focused on literacy and tutoring for early childhood through adult learners.
  • STEM Programs: Education initiatives targeting under-resourced areas, including access to digital devices.
  • Workforce Development: Programs addressing community needs, providing skills for living-wage jobs.

Geographic Reach

The foundation primarily supports organizations operating in states where CenterPoint Energy has a presence, including Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, and Texas. While preference is given to organizations based within these regions, consideration may be extended to those serving CenterPoint Energy's service areas but located outside them.

Eligibility and Grants

To be eligible for grants, organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and recognized as public charities. Recipients are required to submit final reports before reapplying if they have received funding within the past year. The foundation encourages multiple grant applications within a calendar year but considers overall organizational commitments during the review process.