The PPL Foundation awarded nearly $600,000 in grants to support 16 organizations working to empower the communities they serve. The awards will support projects in the areas of education, workforce development and community revitalization.

Grant recipients in the area include:

• Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science and Technology in Allentown received $25,000 to support a Science on the Move outreach vehicle, which will increase the number of students served through outreach programs in Northeast Pennsylvania.

• Lehigh Carbon Community College Foundation received $30,000 to support expansion of LCCC’s STEM initiative to all three campuses (Schnecksville, Allentown and Tamaqua), including the STEM Academy, Women in STEM GROW mentoring program and the Science Technology Talent Showcase to recognize student achievement in STEM programs.

• Pocono Services for Families and Children received $45,000 to support the development of an outdoor classroom for use by hundreds of children attending the on-site child care center.

• Wildlands Conservancy in the Lehigh Valley received $25,000 to support the expansion of a sensory trail, accommodating more visitors and improving the safety and accessibility of the parking area.

The PPL Foundation awards grants in spring and fall. In 2017, PPL awarded more than $1 million. Interested organizations may apply for grants from $1,000 to $25,000. Apply online at www.pplcares.com