Jackson EMC employees from the Neese office recently made a donation to Extra Special People, Inc. (ESP), based in Watkinsville. The nonprofit organization creates transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families. 

ESP’s annual fundraising event, Big Hearts, was held virtually this year. Jackson EMC employees in the Neese office participated in the virtual event. As part of the event, employees could make a monetary donation to the organization, which Jackson EMC matched.  

Tiffany Pethel, district office supervisor, and Connie Bohanan, district administrative assistant, delivered the combined donation to the ESP headquarters. Upon arrival, they were surprised with a confetti shower, a dance party and coffee served by “joyristas,” baristas who participate in ESP’s Java Joy program.  

“It was a fun way to be recognized when we arrived,” Pethel said. “We did not expect it.”  

Pethel is passionate about the work that ESP does. “I am well aware of the mission of ESP, but we should all be reminded how important it is that everyone is given the same opportunities,” Pethel said. “The organization does a great job reminding people to see kids with abilities instead of disabilities and I’m proud to work for a company that supports others like this.”  

Jean Mullis, district manager, Neese, is also thankful for opportunities to support local organizations. “Jackson EMC affords us opportunities to become involved in our communities and there really isn’t a better organization for us to connect with and really make a difference than with ESP,” Mullis said. “Big Hearts is ESP’s largest fund-raising event and for it be virtual this year, we wanted to do our part to make it a big success.” 

Jackson EMC is a supporter of ESP and its mission in the community we serve.