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United Way of Tarrant County has announced that
Chesapeake Energy is the Founding Member of the newly
created Barnett Shale Endowment Fund. The corporation
pledged $1 million to the fund.
“Many people are benefiting from the new technology that
has allowed us to tap into resources that have been here
for millions of years,” explained Tim McKinney,
president and CEO of Tarrant County United Way. “Not
only are the major energy companies benefiting from the
Barnett Shale, but so are those who provide services and
equipment to those companies. Even some local homeowners
are receiving several thousand unexpected dollars.
“We felt this endowment fund would provide a way for all
of these beneficiaries to share their good fortune with
those who will not benefit directly from Barnett Shale
but are in need of support from the community.”
Julie Wilson, Vice President of Corporate Development
for Chesapeake Energy, said, “Chesapeake Energy is
pleased to help expand United Way’s ability to reach all
corners of Tarrant County in a much-needed variety of
healthcare, education and community services to youth,
families and senior citizens for many years.”
“The magnitude of our one
million dollar gift shows how passionate we are about
helping all our neighbors who will benefit directly or
indirectly from the exceptionally diverse services
provided by United Way agencies,” she added. “As the
leading driller of natural gas in today’s urban
environment, we salute the many good programs and
outreach provided by United Way, and we are happy to
help launch this new endowment program so that the
benefits of the Barnett Shale can be realized for
decades to come.”
According to The Perryman
Group, an economic and financial analysis group, the
current economic benefit of all activity associated with
the Barnett Shale is estimated to be approximately $1.2
billion. It is creating 12,303 jobs in Tarrant County.
For more information on
donating to United Way’s Barnett Shale Endowment Fund,
contact Debbie McGee, vice president of major gifts for
United Way of Tarrant County, at 817-258-8047 or e-mail
her at dmcgee@uwmtc.org. |
