Georgia Power has released the company's second annual Citizenship Report highlighting the breadth of community programs and volunteer efforts in 2015. The report, centered on the theme Citizenship Matters, outlines how and why the company is committed to improving every community in which it serves as well as spotlights the work of some of Georgia's leading community and charitable organizations.

Throughout the year, Georgia Power, with the Georgia Power Foundation, Inc., helped nearly 2,000 diverse organizations enrich local communities and the lives of thousands of Georgians by investing more than $17 million in communities and nonprofit organizations statewide. Additionally, 6,000 Georgia Power employees and retirees contributed 160,000 hours in volunteer service - an all-time record for the company.

"At Georgia Power, we strongly believe that being a citizen wherever we serve is as much a part of our business as delivering safe, reliable and affordable electricity to our 2.5 million customers," said Mike Anderson, senior vice president of Community & Corporate Relations for Georgia Power. "We have an obligation and a shared dedication to make a positive impact in our communities and 2015 was an outstanding year thanks to the efforts of our employees and retirees."

The 2015 Citizenship Reports includes 2015 results in five key focus areas; including notes from key community and charitable leaders about the importance of the company's support.

Arts & Culture - "We appreciate Georgia Power's support in renovating the Miller Theater as the new home of the Symphony Orchestra Augusta. The future impact of this project on our city is immeasurable." Ansley Easterlin, Director of Development, Miller Theater Campaign

Civic & Community - "Having Georgia Power as a sponsor for our very first ExpoMujer was like flipping the switch and turning on the light for the advancement of women in our community." Judith Martinez, Co-Founder and Creative Director, YoSoyM

Education - "Georgia Power's support means that we can continue to create innovative resources that will enhance the learning experience for teachers and students across the state." Teya Ryan, CEO & President, Georgia Public Broadcasting

Environment - "Keep Georgia Beautiful is a true public-private partnership and Georgia Power is one of our most important partners. We wouldn't be able to be successful without their support." Sarah Visser, Executive Director, Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation

Health & Human Services - "For over 35 years, Georgia Power's support has helped the Shepherd Center become what we are today - the nation's largest spinal cord and brain injury hospital." - James Shepherd, Co-Founder & Chairman of the Board, Shepherd Center