At AEP Ohio, we believe that volunteering is more than a commitment, it’s a connection. It’s how we strengthen our communities and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Whether participating in community clean-up days, mentoring students, or supporting local food banks, every act of service contributes to the greater good of the communities we serve and call home.
“Volunteering in the communities that we live and work in is not just about giving back; it’s about making lasting connections,” said Angie Rybalt, director of customer experience. “These are our customers and our neighbors that we’re supporting, and volunteering gives us an opportunity to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Here’s just a glimpse of some of the community work we’ve done in northern Ohio in recent months:
Kent State Tuscarawas College Career Fair
AEP Ohio participated in the 5th annual Tuscarawas Valley College and Career Fair, hosted at Kent State Tuscarawas. The event attracted nearly 1,000 students, all eager to explore various employment opportunities.
The career fair not only provided students with valuable insights into the local job market but also allowed AEP Ohio to connect with the next generation of professionals, fostering relationships that could lead to future employment opportunities,” said Chase Hostetler, business services account manager.
Eight and Tenth Grade Career Fair in Knox County
AEP Ohio employees participated in the 2025 Career Quest hosted by Ohio Means Jobs of Knox County. More than one thousand eight and tenth graders from across the county attended and connected with nearly 50 local businesses.
Veterans Resource Fair in Canton
AEP Ohio proudly participated in the 8th Annual Veterans Resource Fair held at the MAPS Air Museum in North Canton. The event brought together hundreds of veterans, their families and widows to access vital services, which included VA benefits support, healthcare enrollment, housing resources, employment opportunities and more as a way of giving back to those who have served.
Stebuenville
The AEP Ohio Foundation presented a $15,000 grant to the Sycamore Youth Center, which provides after-school programming and food distribution for more than 400 students in the Steubenville area. “We are incredibly grateful for this generosity. Thank you, AEP,” the center posted on Facebook.
United Way of Jefferson County Meals of Hope
A dozen AEP Ohio employees volunteered at the United Way of Jefferson County Meals of Hope event. Together, they successfully packaged 39,000 freeze-dried meals to be distributed to local food pantries! “As a proud sponsor of this initiative, AEP Ohio demonstrated our commitment to community service and support for those in need. Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time and effort to make this event a success,” said Business Services Account Manager Frank Baldwin. Watch the local TV coverage here and read more at The Intelligencer Wheeling News-Register.
Safety Town in Mt. Vernon
The Mount Vernon garage was invited to bring a truck to the New Life Church of Christ in Bellville. They host what they call Safety Town, organized by New Life Church preschool program. The Bellville Police Department and AEP Ohio were in attendance to talk about safety to about fifth four- to six-year-olds.
“We explained to the kids about how to stay away from any downed line and never touch anything it may be touching,” said Patrick Simpson, business services account manager. “We also demonstrated the shuffle to get away from a down line and provided all of the little ones their own AEP ‘hard hat,’ which is always a big hit!”
Compassion Delivered
Compassion Delivered is a nonprofit organization based in North Canton, OH, dedicated to providing free, nutritious meals to individuals battling life-threatening or terminal illnesses. Founded in 2017, their mission is rooted in the belief that “food is medicine,” offering hope and health through proper nutrition. Serving Stark County residents, they deliver weekly meals prepared by volunteers, ensuring those in need receive both nourishment and compassion, housing bags decorated with drawings from local schools and an added note of care. Since its inception, Compassion Delivered has provided over 80,000 meals, including 20,000 meals in 2025 alone. Recently, the AEP Foundation awarded $5,000 to support their food education initiatives, furthering their impact on community health and wellness.
Light Up Canton
AEP Ohio was proud to sponsor this year’s Light Up Downtown event in Canton. The celebration featured free activities for all ages, including sleigh rides, live entertainment, local performers, refreshments, live reindeer and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
The evening began with the lighting of the Christmas tree at Central Plaza and concluded with a fireworks display. “We value opportunities like this to connect with the community and support events that bring people together,” said Business Services Account Manager Kelly Haer.
