Marathon Petroleum is stepping up for the community by pledging a $70,000 donation to eight El Paso nonprofit organizations during the first day of El Paso Giving Day Early Giving. The gift, announced Thursday, aligns with the company’s stated commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Early Giving kicks off
El Paso Giving Day, organized by the Paso del Norte Community Foundation, gives donors a full week—starting at midnight Thursday and running through 11:59 p.m. on October 14—to support local charities before the main event on October 15.
“We all agree that one of the key pillars is environmental conservation and sustainability,” said Marathon spokesperson VJ Smith. “We’re celebrating eight organizations that do a really good job of that here in El Paso.” Smith added that Marathon employees will not only provide funding but also roll up their sleeves to volunteer alongside the nonprofits.
Recipients and impact
One of the beneficiaries, Recker’s Outreach, received a $10,000 check at a Thursday presentation. Founder Samantha Recker explained that she started the program after experiencing a difficult childhood herself, hoping to give other children a chance to rise above their circumstances.
“What they’re dealing with right now doesn’t define them,” a Recker’s spokesperson told ABC‑7. “Children make mistakes. It is our job as leaders to show them that they can learn from that mistake and become something greater.” The organization plans to use the Marathon gift to waive service fees for families, reducing financial barriers for those in need.
Other corporate supporters
Marathon is not the only business joining the Giving Day effort. Meta, among other companies, has also pledged contributions. The Paso del Norte Community Foundation (PDNCF) encourages residents to donate as little as $10, noting that every dollar raised stays in the region and participating nonprofits receive 100 % of the funds they collect.
“Gifts of as little as $10 help local nonprofits provide essential services throughout the Paso del Norte region,” PDNCF said in a news release.
Looking ahead
More information about El Paso Giving Day, including a list of participating nonprofits and ways to contribute, is available on the foundation’s website. Marathon’s donation underscores the company’s broader strategy of supporting community initiatives that align with its environmental values while fostering employee engagement in local service.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
