Pacific Gas and Electric Co. announced March 13 its employees and retirees have pledged nearly $3.9 million - a 19 percent increase over last year - to 3,868 schools and nonprofit organizations through the company's 2008 Campaign for the Community. Amador County received a little more than $2,200.

Campaign for the Community is PG&E's annual employee and retiree giving campaign to raise money for nonprofit organizations and schools. The individual contributions have been directed by employees and retirees to go to a variety of organizations and programs, including the Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help program, Salvation Army, Red Cross, United Way, children's charities, hospitals, hospice, schools and many other community and environmental groups.

Locally, the Arc of Amador and Calaveras received the largest portion, with $975. The Hospice of Amador, Jackson Junior High School and Amador Pregnancy Help Center also received funds.

"PG&E employees have once again demonstrated their commitment to giving back to our communities with a new record for donations to community-based organizations and schools," said Ophelia Basgal, vice president of civic partnership and community initiatives at PG&E. "Whether it's a financial donation or an investment of their personal time in a community project, PG&E employees and retirees stand out for their generosity and desire to make a difference."

One-time gifts and payroll deduction pledges for this year were made by 7,580 employees and retirees. The average annual gift pledge from employees is $510. Many of these pledges will be matched by the company, putting even more funds into local communities.

PG&E employees also used a number of special event fund-raisers, including book and food sales, a mini golf tournament and water dunk tanks. These events raised nearly $63,000 for charity which is a 66 percent increase over last year.

In addition to the PG&E employees' annual fund drive, the utility has a history of making charitable grants tailored to the needs of the communities it serves. The company's broader program of support to communities includes cash grants, in-kind contributions, and volunteers for community-based nonprofit organizations, and for schools and other governmental programs throughout northern and central California. All charitable contributions are entirely funded by PG&E Corporation shareholders and the level of charitable giving does not affect gas and electric rates.