Jacksonville-based Miller Electric Co. donated $1 million to support United Way of Northeast Florida’s focus on race, equity and social justice.
“Community is one of our core values at Miller Electric, and reinvesting in the communities where we work is part of our mission,” said Henry Brown, CEO of Miller Electric Co., in a news release.
“We recognize race equity and social justice impacts almost every issue in our society and it will take a committed, long-term approach to make any significant change,” he said.
“As a family-owned company, we take a generational approach to our business and we know we need to bring the same approach to these issues. As the events that unfolded this year brought the spotlight on the continued race equity challenges across the country and in our local community, we did not want to sit on the sidelines.”
According to the “ALICE in Florida: A Financial Hardship Study” report commissioned by United Way, nearly 40% of households struggle to make ends meet in Northeast Florida, comprising Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. Locally and across Florida, the number increases for Black households with 63% unable to afford basic household essentials.
Miller Electric’s gift will support United Way’s goal to improve outcomes, as well as allow the organization to advance racial justice by empowering those closest to the issues.
The gift also will support current programs and services.
“We are grateful to Miller Electric for their partnership and for showing such strong support for race, equity and social justice through their generous gift,” said Michelle Braun, president and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida, in the release.
Founded in 1928, Miller Electric Co. has more than 2,000 employees. It provides electrical and technology solutions to local and national clients including systems integration, connected communities, building automation, business continuity and energy and sustainability services.