The Alliant Energy Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Alliant Energy, has established a Hurricane Katrina Recovery Fund to support local volunteer efforts organized to aid hurricane victims.

“Non-profit organizations from across our four-state service territory are pitching in to help with relief efforts,” says Barbara Swan, president of the Alliant Energy Foundation. “By offering community grants through the Hurricane Katrina Recovery Fund we can help these organizations help others affected by this tragedy.” The Foundation expects to award up to $50,000 in community grants for immediate and long-term hurricane relief initiatives. Typical grants will range from $1,000 to $2500.

“Whether it’s a YMCA or YWCA coordinating living space for evacuees, a non-profit group collecting food, clothing and other needed supplies, or a school district opening its doors to admit students displaced by the disaster, we want to support their efforts,” explains Swan. “We sympathize with those in need and applaud local volunteers for all they are doing.”

To receive funding, organizations are asked to complete a simple application form outlining the recovery effort, as well as the specific needs being met. Applying organizations must meet eligibility guidelines for a community grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation. The application and more information is available online at www.alliantenergy.com/katrinarecovery.