NEW ORLEANS, La. — Thousands of families across Southeast Louisiana will benefit from expanded community programs after Entergy employees, retirees, customers, and community partners helped raise more than $7.7 million during the company’s annual United Way campaign.
The campaign surpassed its fundraising goal by $262,209, generating critical support for United Way organizations serving Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Washington parishes. The funds will help provide services that strengthen education, improve health outcomes, promote financial stability, and assist individuals and families facing unexpected hardships.
“Our campaign theme, ‘Connect to Something Bigger,’ really captures what makes this effort so special,” said Drew Marsh, Entergy chair and chief executive officer. “Every contribution, every volunteer hour and every act of kindness adds up to meaningful change for our neighbors. When we come together with a shared purpose, we create stronger, more resilient communities.”
Marsh noted that many families can quickly find themselves struggling after a medical emergency, severe weather event, rising utility costs, or another unexpected challenge. Through its partnership with United Way, Entergy helps ensure local organizations have the resources to provide assistance before temporary setbacks become long-term crises.
The annual campaign reflects decades of collaboration between Entergy and United Way organizations throughout the Gulf South. Employee giving, retiree donations, customer contributions, corporate support, and volunteer efforts all combine to strengthen nonprofit agencies working on the front lines of community needs.
Funds raised through the campaign support a wide range of initiatives, including early childhood education, workforce development, food assistance, housing stability, disaster preparedness, mental health services, and financial literacy programs. By investing in these areas, United Way partners help families build stronger foundations while improving quality of life across the region.
In addition to celebrating another successful fundraising campaign, Entergy recognized employees whose volunteer leadership has made a lasting difference in their communities. Michelle Delery received the Edward J. Krause Volunteer of the Year Award for her exceptional commitment to serving others through volunteerism and community engagement.
The recognition highlights the importance of personal service alongside financial giving. Across the company, employees contribute countless volunteer hours each year supporting schools, food banks, neighborhood revitalization projects, disaster recovery efforts, and nonprofit organizations that address local needs.
The campaign demonstrates how businesses, employees, nonprofits, and residents can work together to create measurable community impact. By combining financial resources with volunteer service, the partnership extends opportunities to families who need them most while strengthening the social fabric of Southeast Louisiana.
“Communities thrive when people choose to invest in one another,” said Bruce Petillo, founder of Heartitude. “Every act of generosity—whether it’s a donation, volunteer service, or simply showing up for a neighbor—creates ripple effects that can change lives for generations. This campaign reminds us that compassion is one of the most powerful investments any community can make.”
As communities continue addressing economic uncertainty and growing social needs, partnerships like Entergy’s annual United Way campaign demonstrate how collective action can provide lasting hope and practical support for thousands of families.