Sponsored Content

Apex Clean Energy, through its Big Bluestem Community Grant Program, has awarded funds this quarter to four Henry County organizations that strengthen educational opportunity, strengthen community health and/or support environmental stewardship.

“Henry County’s strength lies in its people—the educators, volunteers, and first responders who show up every day for their communities,” Carolyn Mehta, Big Bluestem Wind project development manager said. “These grants are one way we can invest in the partnerships and local efforts that are helping the area grow stronger—today and for years to come.”

This quarter’s recipients include:

• Geneseo High School – Funds will help the school build a modern greenhouse featuring raised beds, temperature controls, water-efficient irrigation, and potentially solar panels. The space will support science and agriculture education, extracurricular groups like FFA, and community engagement through food donations and workshops. “The greenhouse will be a place where students can learn and grow all year long using modern gardening techniques,” Principal Travis Mackey said. “It’s not just for the students; this space will help bring the whole community together.”
• Cambridge Fire Protection District – The grant will provide for installation of a transfer switch that enables automatic generator startup during power outages. “This will help firefighters and ambulance crews respond faster during severe weather,” Fire Chief Tom Akers said. “It also gives those stuck in storms or without power a warm, safe place to turn to when they need help the most.”
• Cambridge Community and Youth Center – Funds will upgrade facilities and continue offering after-school programs, life skills development, and family events. “We’re here for our neighbors, offering meaningful programs for youth and a welcoming space where families and the community can come together,” said Doreen Vincent, the center’s director.
• Cambridge Elementary School – The grant will support the Grow to Know Garden Project, a hands-on initiative that teaches students about plant life cycles, composting, and sustainability. “This project encourages healthy eating, environmental awareness, and leadership,” Principal Heather Pine said. “It also brings the community closer through shared care of the garden.”

The Big Bluestem Community Grant Program supports local initiatives that strengthen community health, expand economic opportunity, promote environmental stewardship, and enhance educational access. Grant awards are determined based on the strength of each application and the specific needs identified within the community. Priority is given to proposals that directly benefit residents in and around the Big Bluestem Wind project area. To learn more or apply, visit bigbluestemwind.com/grant. The current application cycle closes Sept. 30.

About Big Bluestem Wind

Apex Clean Energy is developing Big Bluestem Wind, a proposed wind energy project located in Henry County with the potential to generate up to 300 megawatts of clean, homegrown Illinois energy, enough to power up to 104,000 homes. Big Bluestem Wind will create jobs and generate an entirely new source of long-term revenue for counties, law enforcement, parks, townships, and property owners. The total direct financial impact to the region is projected to be close to $100 million over the life of the project. Learn more at bigbluestemwind.com.

About Apex Clean Energy

Apex Clean Energy was founded with a singular focus: to accelerate the shift to clean energy. Through origination, construction, and operation of utility-scale wind, solar, and storage facilities, distributed energy resources, and green fuel technologies, Apex is expanding the renewable frontier across North America. Our team of more than 400 professionals uses a data-focused approach and an unrivaled portfolio of projects to create solutions for the world’s most innovative and forward-thinking customers. For more information about how Apex is building the energy company of the future, visit apexcleanenergy.com.