Gulf Power recognized two community service organizations at its second annual Power of Service awards ceremony for Bay County on Monday. The company started the Power of Service awards in 2012 as a way to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service and recognizes organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of others.

The organizations honored at the event included the After School Assistance Program and The Gents, Inc. and both received an award as well as $2,500 donation from Gulf Power to help support their programs.

“Each of the groups being recognized are on the front lines of making a positive difference in people’s lives,” said Gulf Power President and CEO Stan Connally. “These organizations deserve to be celebrated for their dedication to our community and we want to help them raise awareness about what they do.”

Allan Bense, Gulf Power board member and former Florida House Speaker, was so moved by the organizations and their work that he made a surprise announcement at the end of the program stating that he plans to match Gulf Power’s $2,500 donation.

“I began a foundation last year after dealing with some major health issues, and the purpose of the foundation is to improve the lives of the people in the Panama City area,” said Bense. “Seeing these groups inspired me as a Panama City community member and a Gulf Power board member to match the donations being given to these organizations.” 

2014 Power of Service recipients:

After School Assistance Program (ASAP), in partnership with the community, works to provide a continuum of services and resources of funding for educational and quality of life opportunities for Bay County children. The group provides a supervised and structured environment for students during the after school hours; drug abuse education and awareness; as well as mentors and role models for children. The program serves the students and their schools by monitoring their grades, attendance, discipline and offers homework assistance.

The Gents, Inc. consistently works towards the betterment of the community through scholarships, support of youth programs, charitable donations and goodwill for all worthy causes. The organization provides several scholarships for qualified high school seniors at local high schools; assistance in obtaining student financial aid; utility bill payment assistance; and support for community victims of weather-related events.