In a season marked by gratitude and compassion, PPEC proudly led three impactful community initiatives, leaving a trail of warmth, joy, and support across the region.

Clothes for Joes: Honoring Veterans on Veterans Day

On November 10, 2023, PPEC hosted a Veterans Day Donation Drive. From 1-5 pm, both members and the wider community donated diabetic socks, toiletries, men’s and women's clothing, and more. The outpouring of support filled several SUVs, delivering much-needed provisions to Clothes for Joes—an organization dedicated to supporting veterans in NW Ohio and NE Indiana. For more about their mission, visit clothesforjoes.org.

Operation Christmas Child: Spreading Holiday Cheer Worldwide

This year, PPEC's employees showcased the spirit of giving by donating 32 shoe boxes to Operation Christmas Child. Collaborating with Samaritan's Purse, this international program sends Christmas presents to children in need around the globe. Each box is filled with care and hygiene items, school supplies, water bottles, toys, and more. To learn more about this initiative or to contribute, visit www.samaritanspurse.org/what-we-do/operation-christmas-child/.

Winter Coat Drive: Wrapping the Community in Warmth

PPEC's commitment to the community continued with a Winter Coat Drive, aiming to keep local families warm throughout the winter. The drive collected new or gently used coats, spanning sizes 2T to Adult XL, which produced an incredible donation of 128 coats. These coats found new homes through distribution points at Putnam County Educational Service Center in Ottawa, OH; Thomas Edison Preschool in Van Wert, OH; Paulding County Opportunity Center in Paulding, OH; St. James Lutheran Church in New Haven, IN; and New Haven Primary School in New Haven, IN.

As the season unfolds, PPEC demonstrates the cooperative principle of concern for community, highlighting that no matter how small, collective efforts can greatly benefit those in need.