On Tuesday, Fayetteville Public Works Commission received a national award for community service. 

The American Public Power Association Sue Kelly Community Service Award, given at the APPA’s National Conference in Orlando, Florida, was given to PWC for consistently going the extra mile to best serve the community, according to the organization.

“PWC exemplifies the power of togetherness — the power of collaboration with their actions. They not only supply our growing region with quality/reliable infrastructure, but they believe in being good neighbors; and dedicating their resources to support the community,” said Bianca Shoneman, president and CEO of Cool Spring Downtown District.

PWC partnered with the downtown district to bring Prismatica downtown. Passersby could interact with the art installation. “Prismatica-Powered by PWC” increased foot traffic by 30 percent downtown, according to a PWC press release. 

In addition to the art installation, PWC has made great efforts to serve the community by supporting a variety of organizations and efforts in the region. Over more than 20 years, PWC has donated more than $2 million dollars to United Way. 

“PWC’s efforts and commitment to improving lives are evident in their work and through interaction with their staff,” stated Amy Navejas, president of United Way of Cumberland County.

“Their efforts stand out as they go above and beyond to encourage workplace support of those in need not only through generous financial support totaling over $2.2 million, but through volunteerism and dedication to numerous community events.” 

Because of the impact of COVID-19 and the projection that giving to United Way would decrease, employees raised $156,000 — a nine percent increase over last year’s PWC contribution. 

APPA also looked at other offerings that PWC has provided, such as the Building Business Rally initiatives, their local line worker program through Fayetteville Technical Community College and building North Carolina’s first Public Power Community Solar Project.