Earthrise Energy Awards $100,000 RISE Grant to Vermilion County Animal Shelter Foundation

 

Funding will strengthen lifesaving care, adoptions, and community education for animals across Vermilion County

Vermilion County, Illinois – The Vermilion County Animal Shelter Foundation (VCASF), a 501(c)(3) organization, is celebrating a major milestone in its mission to support homeless animals. Thanks to a $100,000 RISE Grant from Earthrise Energy, the Foundation will expand critical programs that provide humane care, safe adoption, and education about responsible pet ownership.

“Every animal deserves a chance at a healthy, loving home,” said Amy Roberts, President of VCASF. “This grant allows us to reestablish our major community events and provides lifesaving care through spay and neuter, heartworm treatment, medical and emergency financial support, food and supplies as needed, rescue transportation, adoption events, and education.”

The Foundation, founded in 1988, partners directly with the Vermilion County Animal Shelter to serve thousands of animals each year and reach more than 70,000 people across the county through education and outreach.

With Earthrise’s investment, VCASF will relaunch its large annual spring and fall fundraising events—paused during the pandemic—creating sustainable revenue to continue supporting shelter animals in need. The grant will also help the Foundation expand its reach in the community and strengthen long-term partnerships that make its work possible.

“At Earthrise, we know that thriving communities care for every member—including our four-legged friends,” said Ellie Ginis, project development manager at Earthrise Energy. “The Vermilion County Animal Shelter Foundation plays a vital role in building a compassionate, responsible community, and we’re proud to help ensure their lifesaving work continues.”
Earthrise Energy’s RISE Grant program supports initiatives that strengthen communities through investments in education, mental health, and community development. Through this program, Earthrise has awarded nearly $2 million in grants to organizations across Illinois. The Earthrise RISE Grant program is fully funded by Earthrise Energy’s own profits as a Public Benefit LLC. This reflects Earthrise’s commitment to reinvesting in the communities it serves. Earthrise Energy does not apply for, or receive, any government grants to support this program.

Earthrise Energy, an independent power producer, owns and operates 1.7 gigawatts of natural gas generation capacity and is developing 1.5 gigawatts of solar projects in the Midwest, including two Gibson City projects now under construction.

For more information about Earthrise Energy, visit: https://www.earthriseenergy.com

For more information about the Vermilion County Animal Shelter Foundation, visit: https://www.facebook.com/VCASF. VCASF is a stand-alone organization and is not connected to Vermilion County or its Board.