DTE Energy Foundation Grant Helps Bring "After 26 Project" Closer to Reality

CADILLAC, Mich., May 16, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The After 26 Project – which is creating a restaurant and gift shop that will employ 30 special needs adults from the greater Cadillac area – is closer to reality thanks to a $10,000 grant from the DTE Energy Foundation.

The money will be used to update the former Ann Arbor railroad depot, 127 W. Cass Street, in downtown Cadillac, which will serve as the location for the restaurant. DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) will award a check to project representatives during an 11 a.m. Wednesday ceremony at the site.

"It's an incredible gift," said Andrew MacDonald, an After 26 Project board member. "Unlike many grants, we can spend this money on any of our several needs, which makes it almost like getting $20,000. We can't thank DTE Energy Foundation enough."

MacDonald says the restaurant and gift shop will likely open later this year.

The After 26 Project began in 2007 when a local group of retired teachers, parents and volunteers got together to see if they could provide meaningful employment for special needs adults. After age 26, special needs adults can no longer attend public schools in Michigan.

MacDonald said the project still needs individual and corporate donors. For more information on the project and how to donate to it, visit the group's website at www.after26project.org or call MacDonald at 231-920-5311.

The DTE Energy Foundation is the philanthropic arm of DTE Energy, continuing the legacy of community support and involvement of its principal operating subsidiaries, Detroit Edison and MichCon.  http://www.dteenergy.com/foundation.

SOURCE DTE Energy