Vectren pledges $75,000 to assist Japan earthquake relief efforts

Friday, March 18, 2011

EVANSVILLE -- Through collaboration with the Japan-America Society for Indiana (JASI), Vectren Corp. has committed to provide $50,000 for recovery assistance in connection with the recent, devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Vectren's donation to JASI's Japan Earthquake Relief Fund is in addition to an employee contribution program that Vectren is implementing, matching up to $25,000 from its 3,900 employees.

"While serving nearly 200 Japanese companies throughout our Indiana and Ohio utility service territory, the recent tragedy in Japan will undoubtedly reach close to home," said Vectren President and CEO Carl L. Chapman. "It is important to us to extend a hand in this time of need in honor of both the Japanese companies and Japanese-American communities we serve."

"Donation from companies like Vectren will enable us to send much-needed relief to Japan," JASI Executive Director Theresa Kulczak said. "Through our experience during the Kobe earthquake in 1995, we knew that a credible grassroots fund focusing on support from Indiana was the best way to provide aid.

"The moment we heard about the quake and tsunami off the coast of Sendai, we know we had to develop a means for Hoosiers to help and that led us to establish the Japan Earthquake Relief Fund. We're deeply appreciative of Vectren's generous contribution and leadership, which will certainly inspire others."

The Japan-America Society of Indiana has established a statewide Japan Earthquake Relief Fund to accept donations for this effort. Tax-deductible donations can be made through the organization's website at www.japanindiana.org.

JASI has partnered with major banks Chase, Fifth Third, Old National, and PNC to make the fund conveniently accessible for Indiana residents with donations accepted at all branches of the financial institutions across the state. The Society will distribute 100 percent of the funds in a timely manner to carefully selected Japanese relief organizations assisting the affected areas.

In addition to the major contribution and employee gift program by Vectren, other leading companies are supporting the JASI Japan Earthquake Relief Fund, as are universities, communities and other not-for-profit organizations.

For more information contact Theresa Kulczak, executive director, Japan-America Society of Indiana, by e-mail at Theresa.kulczak@japanindiana.org or by phone at (317) 635-0123.

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