has donated $2,500 to the Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc. (PIC) in support of PIC's Manufacturing Career Exploration Program (MCEP).

"We are delighted by this generous gift from Columbia Gas," said Tim Yurcisin, President of PIC. "The MCEP has grown and developed significantly over the past few years, and with this donation we will be able to keep that momentum going."

The Manufacturing Career Exploration Program engages participating high school youth in activities that demonstrate the diverse, high-skill careers that exist in the manufacturing industry and provides participants with the opportunity to develop skills in communications, teamwork, and problem-solving. To date, over 30 local manufacturing employers have been involved with the program, providing industry-related information, site tours, project activities, and internship opportunities.

The Private Industry Council of Westmoreland/Fayette, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has been operating employment, education, and training programs in Westmoreland and Fayette Counties since 1983. From its inception, PIC has provided services to over 50,000 individuals.

Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, with local headquarters in Pittsburgh, serves more than 410,000 customers in 27 counties. It is one of the 10 energy distribution companies of NiSource Inc. (NYSE: NI). NiSource distribution companies serve 3.9 million natural gas and electric customers primarily in nine states. More information about Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania is available at www.columbiagas.com.

Leslie J. Orbin (pictured on right), Manager of Communications and Community Relations from Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania hands the $2,500 check to Tim Yurcisin (pictured on left), PIC President and to Pat Jones (pictured in middle), PIC Youth Employment Training Supervisor.

For more information about the MCEP, please call 724-836-2600.