Eagle River Light and Water donations to local nonprofits

Eagle River Light and Water, with support from its joint action agency WPPI Energy, began December by embracing the spirit of giving. The locally owned utility disbursed nearly $3,000 in donations to area nonprofit entities that benefit the community.

“Supporting these groups is important to making our city an even better place,” said Mike Sanborn, utility manager for Eagle River Light and Water. “This utility has been here for over a century, and whether we’re providing electric service or supporting local causes, we aim to be a positive force for the community that has relied on us for generations.”

Eagle River Light and Water distributed funds to six nonprofit organizations: the Eagle River Historical Society, Trees for Tomorrow, the Salvation Army, Vilas Food Pantry, Warm the Children Fund and the Vilas County Economic Development Corporation.

Donations totaled $2,800. The utility is a member of WPPI Energy, which provided the funds through its Value of Local Utility Program. The aim of the program is to bolster the community that a local utility serves to ensure everyone in it can thrive.

“We’re proud to be a member of WPPI Energy, and this program is one of the reasons,” Sanborn said. “It’s through that shared strength we can be sure our community is successful.”