PECO Celebrates 30 Years of Empowering Communities Through Employee Volunteerism

This month, PECO proudly marks a powerful milestone: 30 years of honoring employees who go above and beyond to uplift our communities through the Employee Volunteer Awards program.

What began in 1995 as the Cherry E. Cooper Achievement Awards — named after a beloved PECO employee and passionate community volunteer — has grown into a company-wide tradition that now spans all Exelon operating companies.

Today, the program is known as the Exelon Foundation Employee Volunteer Awards, recognizing employees who have contributed more than 35 hours of service in the previous year. Each honoree receives a $5,000 grant directed to the nonprofit they serve, extending the reach of their impact.

As we celebrate this 30-year legacy, we shine a spotlight on three extraordinary PECO employees whose dedication continues to light the way:

Anita Muhammad – Face to Face

Anita’s commitment to Face to Face, a nonprofit serving low-income communities in Germantown and surrounding neighborhoods, is nothing short of inspiring. She played a pivotal role in planning their 40th anniversary fundraiser, attending every meeting, offering fresh ideas, and helping make it their most successful event yet. But Anita’s impact goes far beyond the boardroom. Each year, she leads a “kitchen takeover,” preparing meals for 125 guests. Known affectionately as “the fried chicken lady,” Anita brings warmth, nourishment, and joy to everyone she serves — while inspiring others to join the mission.

Jim Thompson – Project HOME

For over five years, Jim has been a driving force behind Project HOME, which provides housing, healthcare, and education to individuals experiencing homelessness in Lower North Philadelphia. His leadership in fundraising for their Bring Philly Home event helped boost corporate support for their 35th anniversary gala. Jim’s connection to Project HOME is deeply personal as he developed a strong connection to the mission while working for the organization. Today, he continues to give back as a member of their Finance and Audit Committee, helping shape the future of an organization that once helped him.

Erik Schroeder – Grands Stepping Up

Erik serves on the board of Grands Stepping Up, a nonprofit supporting grandparents raising grandchildren. Through his work on the youth activities committee, Erik runs a gardening club that teaches sustainable practices and provides fresh produce to families in need. Thanks to a garden built during a PECO volunteer event, Erik has helped grow over 350 pounds of produce for the organization’s pantry. He’s also led back-to-school drives for 350+ children and holiday gift donations for more than 150 families — bringing hope and support to those who need it most.

Learn more about how PECO supports our neighborhoods: peco.com/community.