Grants exceed $400K by Clean Energy Foundation
The San Juan County Clean Energy Foundation (SJCCEF) announced $407,644 in grant funding to 13 local organizations for 2024, reaffirming its commitment to fostering stronger, more vibrant communities in San Juan County.
Supported by Energy Fuels’ and its White Mesa uranium, rare earth and critical mineral production facility, the foundation invests in initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for San Juan County residents.
The 2024 grants will support a range of projects led by Navajo Nation Red Mesa Chapter, Blanding Rotary Club, San Juan School District, Blanding City, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, United Way of Eastern Utah, City of Monticello, Utah Food Bank, and others.
The funded projects address key community needs, including education, healthcare, safety, recreation and cultural enrichment.
“We carefully evaluate every grant application to ensure the projects we fund create meaningful impacts across the county,” said Robert Turk, SJCCEF Advisory Board Chair.
“Our focus is on advancing economic opportunities, preserving our region’s unique character and improving the daily lives of our neighbors. We are excited to continue this important work in 2025.”
Since its establishment in 2021, the SJCCEF has committed more than $730,000 to local organizations, fueled by initial funding of $1 million from Energy Fuels and ongoing contributions tied to revenues from the White Mesa Mill.
“Energy Fuels established the foundation to give back to the community that supports us,” said Mark Chalmers, President and CEO of Energy Fuels.
“The projects funded this year, and in the past, showcase the incredible impact local organizations can make when equipped with the right resources. We’re proud to help create a thriving future for San Juan County, Utah.”
The 2024 grants are being used to support several area initiatives, including energy efficient lighting for Blanding’s baseball and softball fields, a new pavilion for Pickleball Park, accessible playground equipment in Monticello, access to fine arts programming for the community, gas gift cards for cancer patients, a new K-9 unit for the Sheriff’s Office, tennis shoes for children in need and more.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Foundation’s support of our park pavilion project,” said Trent Herring, Blanding City Manager.
“This pavilion will provide much-needed shade and enhance the usability of our local park, all while employing local workers to complete the project.”
Grant applications are reviewed quarterly, For more information about the SJCCEF or to apply for funding, visit sanjuancountycleanenergy.org/apply.