Nicor Gas accepting grant applications for environmental stewardship initiatives

NAPERVILLE, IL. – March 1, 2024 - Nicor Gas is announcing $100,000 in funding to support environmental stewardship programs, expanding on its commitment to protect the environment by investing in nonprofit organizations that contribute to clean air, conservation, preservation of green space and sustainable activities.

Starting March 1, 501(c)3 designated community organizations and nonprofits may apply for these environmental stewardship grants from Nicor Gas to support their initiatives. Applications will be accepted through May 31 at www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving; funding decisions will be made by July 31.

“At Nicor Gas, we believe part of our corporate responsibility is to give back to the communities we are privileged to serve,” said Jackie Nagel, manager of Community Affairs at Nicor Gas. “Our investments in meaningful projects through nonprofit partners result in conservation and restoration of natural environments, ensuring the places our customers live and work are healthy thriving communities.”

As the largest natural gas provider in Illinois, Nicor Gas is committed to creating, maintaining and sustaining 10,000 acres of open space in its service area, and helping to achieve equitable access to these cultural, educational and recreational spaces.

Last year, the company awarded $100,000 in environmental stewardship grants to 21 organizations. Grants included:

• Friends of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge – an ecological restoration of land in McHenry County that will become a part of the National Wildlife Refuge once restored. Volunteer stewardship workdays engage high school students from local McHenry County schools to strengthen their connection to their environment.
• John Wesley Powell Audubon Society – a restoration of natural areas in Bloomington-Normal including native seed planting to ensure that parks continue to provide a thriving habitat for migrating birds.

Selected nonprofits and community organizations will be eligible to receive up to $5,000 in grant funds this year. To submit an application for an environmental stewardship grant, click here.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ commitment to the environment, visit NicorGas.com/Community.