Direct Energy teams up with HCC-TV to power student success
Sep 26, 2016
The future is bright for students enrolled in the Houston Community College (HCC) Culinary Arts and HVAC programs thanks to a generous donation from Direct Energy.
During the September meeting of the HCC Board of Trustees, the Houston-based power retailer presented the HCC Foundation with a check for $13,000 for scholarships. The funds will be split between the two programs in the Consumer Arts & Sciences and Construction Centers of Excellence.
“We are grateful for the generosity of the Direct Energy Foundation to provide valuable support for this very special and deserving community of HCC students,” said Robert Glaser, HCC Board of Trustees Vice Chair. “This gift will impact the lives of many students whose dreams of fulfilling their personal and professional and academic potential depend on the services provided.”
The $13,000 gift came about through a sponsorship for HCC-TV’s new syndicated program called “Food Without Borders”. The half-hour entertainment/food show will be released later this year in 13 episodes.
Terrick Smith, Direct Energy Wellbeing & Engagement Manager and former HCC student, will provide one-minute segments during those episodes that will address the benefits of healthy eating and exercise.
“I wanted to give back to the community in a way that I have never before. Doing one minute commercials within the ‘Food Without Borders’ show was a great opportunity,” said Smith.
The relationship with Direct Energy began in 2007 with donations to manufacturing students, but this is the first year Direct Energy is giving to the Culinary Arts program. To date, Direct Energy has given the HCC Foundation more than $163,000 in scholarship funds.
“We are so pleased to earn your committed support and corporate philanthropy,” said David Itz, HCC Foundation Treasurer. “We look forward to growing our partnership and we look forward to reporting on the success of our students and the impact of your corporate giving.”
To learn about scholarships offered through the HCC Foundation, visit hccsfoundation.org.