READING, PA — The FirstEnergy Foundation has awarded a $25,000 grant to the IM Able Foundation, a Berks County-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting physical activity and wellness for children, veterans, and adults with disabilities. This latest contribution underscores FirstEnergy’s ongoing commitment to supporting community-focused initiatives throughout eastern Pennsylvania, where it operates as Met-Ed.
The grant will specifically bolster IM Able’s Operation Lead from the Front initiative, an innovative program designed to assist military veterans as they navigate the transition to civilian life. By addressing challenges such as social isolation, loss of purpose, and mental health struggles, the initiative provides adaptive and inclusive fitness opportunities to roughly 2,500 veteran and non-veteran participants. Activities include everything from rock climbing and kayaking to skiing, ropes courses, and adventure challenges.
“This $25,000 grant will directly empower veterans with physical, cognitive, and behavioral disabilities by expanding access to adaptive fitness, wellness coaching, and peer mentorship,” said Alex A. Pilkington, CEO of IM Able Foundation. “With this funding, we will help more veterans regain strength, build community, and rediscover their purpose through movement.”
Beyond providing financial support, FirstEnergy’s employees are also actively engaging with IM Able. John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, recently visited the foundation’s adaptive gym alongside Met-Ed employees, experiencing firsthand the impact of the programs. During the visit, Hawkins tested a specialized hand crank-propelled cycle, which can cost up to $20,000 and is designed for riders with physical disabilities.
“Through the FirstEnergy Foundation, we’ve granted over $1 million in the first half of 2025 to enhance community well-being through organizations like IM Able,” Hawkins noted. “The Met-Ed team is excited to volunteer and help bring these programs to life—it’s all about fostering community and building confidence through engaging physical activity.”
The funding also supports enhanced training for veterans interested in mentoring and coaching individuals with disabilities, further expanding IM Able’s reach and impact.
As part of its broader community engagement strategy, FirstEnergy has focused on initiatives that address critical needs across its service areas. This partnership with IM Able represents a significant investment in empowering veterans and promoting inclusive wellness opportunities for all.
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