Editor’s note: A high-resolution photo is available for download here. Caption is below.
IDAHO FALLS, ID — Battelle Energy Alliance (BEA), operator of the Idaho National Laboratory, and its employees are proud to announce the successful completion of their annual United Way campaign, which raised $640,000 through employee pledges and corporate donations. These contributions will support regional United Way agencies and their nonprofit partners in 2026. This achievement represents one of the largest United Way workplace campaigns in Idaho, reflecting BEA’s strong commitment to community.
“This campaign represents something I’m deeply proud of — our employees choosing to invest in the communities where they live and work,” said INL Director John Wagner. “At INL, caring for our neighbors isn’t just a value we talk about; it’s how we show up for eastern Idaho.”
Ron Crone, associate laboratory director for INL’s Materials and Fuels Complex, is a co-champion of the lab’s campaign and serves on the board for United Way of Eastern Idaho.
“Our employees’ generosity is more than a donation; it’s a statement that we care deeply about the well-being of those around us,” Crone said.
INL’s United Way campaign is unique because it spans a broad region of eastern Idaho, supporting United Way and partner agencies in communities where our employees live and work. INL’s footprint covers 890 square miles, and more than 6,000 employees live in areas served by the United Way of Eastern Idaho based in Idaho Falls, and United Way of Southeastern Idaho based in Pocatello. These organizations serve 14 counties and the Fort Hall Indian Reservation, uniting communities to tackle complex challenges in health, education and financial stability. By partnering with both organizations, INL reflects its commitment to strengthening the communities where employees live, work and play.
“Thanks to INL and its employees, more families will have access to resources that improve health, education and financial stability,” said Christine Wiersema, CEO of United Way of Eastern Idaho. “This collaboration demonstrates the power of community partnerships.”
NEWS MEDIA CONTACTS:
Sarah Neumann, 208-520-1651, sarah.neumann@inl.gov
Liza Leonard, 208-526-6049, liza.leonard@inl.gov
