Donka Student, Ben Penachio, ComEd’s 2025 Energy Force Ambassador

Donka Student Joins ComEd’s Energy Force Ambassador Program!

At Donka, we are always looking for opportunities that empower our students and create meaningful community impact. That is why we are thrilled that one of our students, Ben Penachio, has been selected to participate in ComEd Energy Force Ambassador Program—a unique initiative that promotes energy efficiency while championing individuals with developmental disabilities.

Since 2012, ComEd has led the way in energy education through its Energy Force Ambassador Program, which trains talented individuals with developmental disabilities to educate communities about energy-saving strategies. These ambassadors play a crucial role in spreading awareness about ComEd’s mission, engaging directly with the public at events throughout the year.

Through this program, ambassadors receive extensive training on energy efficiency solutions, ComEd’s smart grid technology, and sustainable energy practices. They then use their knowledge to help customers discover simple ways to reduce energy consumption and access financial assistance programs designed to ease the burden of utility costs.

This year, Donka is proud to be one of only three new organizations selected to participate, joining an elite group of thirty agencies. As part of this initiative, ComEd has provided a stipend to Donka to ensure Ben has the necessary support to fully engage in the program.

Ben’s journey with Donka began through the LaGrange High School transition program, where he worked closely with our assistive technology instructor, Linda Yurka, to master Dragon software and gain computer independence. From there, he transitioned to Carlos Johnson, Donka’s job placement specialist, who helped him explore career opportunities that maximize his potential. Carlos submitted Ben’s application to the Energy Force Ambassador Program, and we were overjoyed when he was accepted!

As an ambassador, Ben will be responsible for conducting ten community engagements between January and December 2025, whether at Donka, ComEd-sponsored events, or outreach programs within the broader community. He will contribute by:

• Participating in both in-person and virtual events
• Demonstrating easy, practical ways for people to save energy at home
• Submitting reports on each engagement through an online portal
• Capturing photos and collecting email sign-ups for ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Program

We are incredibly proud of Ben and cannot wait to see the impact he makes as an Energy Force Ambassador! Join us in supporting his journey by attending one of his events. You can explore the full schedule here: Community Events Calendar | ComEd – An Exelon Company

Stay tuned for updates on Ben’s experiences and the difference he is making in our community.