Chicago-area Students Benefit from ComEd Employee Paying It Forward
July 22, 2024
Shane McCoy, Project Manager at ComEd in Oak Brook, Ill., grew up on the west side of Chicago. His experiences have led him to become a leader within his community and at ComEd, where he is now recognized as one of the winners of Exelon’s – ComEd’s parent company – Employee Volunteer Awards (EVA). Now on its 19th year, this program recognizes and honors employees who dedicate their time and efforts to making a positive impact in their communities through volunteerism. Shane’s outstanding volunteer work with Invisible Book Bag, Inc. has been a significant part of his recognition.
Invisible Book Bag, Inc. is a community-based organization that offers free, needs-based services and programs for children and families in Chicago. Their mission is to provide essential resources such as food, snacks, water, transportation, stipends for junior counselors and workshop presenters, scholarships for college-bound participants, and necessary program materials.
Today, we share the story of Shane, one of the three ComEd Employee Volunteer Award recipients, while we look forward to sharing about Vanessa Morrissette who volunteered with DuPage County ACT-SO and Daryl Richardson who volunteered at Dream Academy in our upcoming Powering Lives Network stories.
A Story of Giving Back
Shane at a volunteer event with bags full of holiday gifts to distribute to children at Invisible Book Bag.
Shane’s journey to becoming a dedicated volunteer began with his own experiences growing up. As a child, he was involved with Off the Street Club and Boys and Girls Club of Chicago. The mentorship and support he received there played a pivotal role in his success at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill., and his current career at ComEd.
Now, Shane is giving back by volunteering with Invisible Book Bag, an organization that provides sports, field trips, and other resources to help students express themselves.
Having been with Invisible Book Bag for nearly three years, Shane dedicates up to 15 hours a week mentoring and tutoring students, helping them transition from high school to college or the workforce.
“Growing up, I had mentors who believed in me and helped me see my potential. Now, I want to be that person for others,” said Shane. “It’s about paying it forward and creating opportunities for the next generation.”
Shane’s personal background and experiences allow him to connect deeply with the students he mentors. He understands their struggles and aspirations, and he uses his position to bridge the gap between the younger generation and the older mentors within the organization. His unique approach, which he fondly refers to as putting a “Shane spin on it,” makes a significant difference in the lives of these young individuals.
The Power of Mentorship
One of Shane’s key motivations for volunteering is the desire to share his success and give back to his community. He has faced many challenges but believes in providing the best opportunities for his children and family.
His connection with Albert Sharp, CEO of Invisible Book Bag, has been instrumental in his journey.
“Working with Shane at ComEd has been such a pleasure,” said Albert. “Seeing him dedicate himself to our organization and making a meaningful impact in the lives of our children has been truly inspiring. We’re incredibly thankful to have Shane as one of our volunteers, and we deeply appreciate his commitment and contribution.”
Albert has mentored Shane and taught him to be a basketball referee, and their relationship remains strong to this day. Albert’s continued presence in Shane’s life exemplifies the enduring power of mentorship and the profound impact one person can have on another’s journey.
Albert at a mentoring session with Shane’s son.
Albert’s guidance has not only shaped Shane’s approach to mentoring but also reinforced the importance of giving back. “If you’re able to help someone else, do it,” Shane advised. “Seeing the students’ faces light up when they realize someone cares about their future is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me of why I do this and the difference we can all make.”
ComEd’s Commitment to Volunteerism
Holiday presents wrapped up by Shane and Invisible Book Bag team.
ComEd’s volunteer efforts are rooted in the strong commitment of Exelon Corporation to supporting communities year-round. Through several programs like EVA or Dollars for Doers—an Exelon program that provides grants to nonprofit organizations where employees volunteer their time—employees like Shane can give back to the organizations they are passionate about.
These programs support various causes and support ComEd’s broader volunteer strategy, which is to foster a culture of giving and community engagement.
From environmental sustainability projects to educational support and beyond, ComEd offers numerous opportunities for employees to get involved and make a difference. ComEd’s dedication to volunteerism underscores the belief that, together, we can create positive change and build stronger, more resilient communities.
