JCP&L Volunteers Trade Electrical Know-How for Drywall Tools at Habitat for Humanity Build

Two future JCP&L customers are one step closer to moving into their new homes, thanks to the hands-on efforts of JCP&L employee volunteers.

On a bright June day in Fair Haven, New Jersey, employees from across JCP&L teamed up with Monmouth County Habitat for Humanity to hang drywall at a two-family home under construction.

“This home will serve two low-to-moderate income families, just like every Habitat for Humanity project,” said Meredith Darche, Executive Director of Monmouth County Habitat for Humanity. “We’re working across the county to turn the dream of homeownership into a reality.”

The home features a main-level unit for the primary homeowner and an upper-level rental unit. JCP&L volunteers measured, cut and installed drywall in the apartment’s bedrooms and bathrooms.

“I’ve never done this before, but there are people here to guide us,” said Samantha Gartner, a JCP&L Customer Services Representative in the Billing department. “It’s a great skill to learn, and I don’t mind getting my hands dirty.”

Similarly, Bryan Wood, a JCP&L Layout Technician, was busy cutting and disposing of scrap lumber.

“I love that JCP&L gives us the opportunity to give back during the workweek when volunteers are needed most,” he said. “I’ve done this kind of work before, so it’s rewarding to put those skills to good use.” 

This build marked Wood’s first time using his Volunteer Time Off (VTO) hours, part of a FirstEnergy program that provides each employee with 16 hours annually to volunteer with qualifying nonprofit organizations.

“It means a lot that the company encourages us to get out and support the communities we serve,” he said.

JCP&L and the FirstEnergy Foundation have long supported Habitat for Humanity in New Jersey. In 2023, JCP&L employees helped build a home in Manchester, Ocean County. Since 2021, the FirstEnergy Foundation has donated $71,000 to Habitat chapters across the state. The Monmouth County Habitat for Humanity has received $8,500 in company donations over the past 12 years.

Learn more about JCP&L and FirstEnergy’s commitment to our local communities at firstenergycorp.com/community.