When CMS Energy and Consumers Energy employees and retirees volunteer, they touch people and their communities in amazing ways. To recognize their work and to support nonprofit organizations that make a difference in our communities, the Consumers Energy Foundation has established two programs:
Volunteer Investment Program
The VIP program was established to recognize the importance of employee and retiree volunteerism, and support nonprofit organizations making a difference in their communities. Through this program, organizations supported by employees and retirees with volunteer time can receive grants from $100 to $500.
CEEPSACER Program
The CEEPSACER Program (pronounced “keepsaker”) supports America’s Promise — The Alliance for Youth, a collaborative network that builds upon the collective power of communities and partners to help fulfill the five promises for every young person in America. The five promises are: caring adults, safe places, a healthy start, marketable skills and opportunities to serve.
CEEPSACER (Consumers Energy Employees Providing Service Around Children’s Essential Resources) grants double Volunteer Investment Program (VIP) grants when volunteers and the nonprofit organizations provide at least two of the five promises on an ongoing basis.
Volunteer Projects
CMS Energy and Consumers Energy employees and retirees volunteer thousands of hours a year to strengthen and support communities. They maintain nature trails, clean highways, rivers and shorelines and create butterfly gardens. They also help at cultural events, exhibitions and serve on the boards of nonprofit agencies. They also volunteer for:
