Earlier this month, FirstEnergy teamed up with the Akron Rubber Ducks baseball team to introduce the “Quack Open a Book & Read” program. The program encourages all elementary students across northeast Ohio to read four books before April 15 to earn a free ticket to a home game on April 16 or 17.

To help kickstart the students’ reading journey, FirstEnergy provided an activity book filled with dozens of electrical safety tips, games and coloring activities to remind them how to keep themselves and their loved ones safe around electricity.

Students who participate in the reading program will be honored during the game and could be randomly selected for special prizes, including throwing out a first pitch or being the announcer for an inning.

“We’re leveraging our sports sponsorships to directly impact the communities we serve,” said Lorna Wisham, Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Community Involvement. “By promoting literacy programs and encouraging a love for baseball and teamwork, FirstEnergy is investing in the growth of our future leaders and empowering the community with the tools they need to succeed.”

FirstEnergy is a strong supporter of promoting local literacy programs. Past events have included hosting free Scholastic Book Fairs for more than 500 children in Akron Public Schools in conjunction with the Cleveland Cavaliers.