Investing in Mental Health: Duke Energy’s Approach to Business and Community Impact
Mental health has long been considered a personal or societal issue, but forward-thinking businesses recognize it as a critical investment in their workforce and community. Companies are leading the way by integrating mental health initiatives into their corporate social responsibility strategies, ensuring the success of both their employees and the communities they serve.
Liz Irwin, Government and Community Relations Manager at Duke Energy, recently shared insights on why investing in mental health makes strong business sense and how organizations can play a meaningful role in driving positive change. As mental health awareness grows, businesses have an opportunity to support initiatives that not only improve employee well-being but also strengthen the overall economic and social fabric of their communities. This effort is being championed by organizations like Bloomington Health Foundation, which plays a critical role in convening partners to create a sustainable, community-wide impact.
The Business Case for Mental Health Investment
“Healthy employees are productive employees,” says Irwin. “And with healthcare costs continuing to rise, addressing both physical and mental health is a necessity—not just for individual well-being, but for the overall cost of doing business.”
Organizations prioritizing mental health see tangible benefits, including reduced absenteeism, improved employee engagement, and enhanced workplace culture. More importantly, investing in employee well-being can help prevent costly healthcare interventions later on. When businesses take proactive steps to integrate mental health support, they not only see financial returns but also foster a more resilient and loyal workforce.
In addition to financial incentives, companies that prioritize mental health gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining top talent. Job seekers increasingly evaluate employers based on the “well-being” resources available to them. Companies that invest in robust mental health programs demonstrate their commitment to a healthier work environment, ultimately leading to improved employee satisfaction and long-term success.
Beyond the Workplace: Supporting Mental Health in the Community
For companies like Duke Energy, the commitment to mental health extends beyond the workplace.
“We strive to be good corporate citizens, which means understanding the challenges facing the communities we serve and identifying ways to help address them.”
Businesses have an opportunity to lead by example—not just through financial contributions but through active engagement. Duke Energy employees, for instance, participate in volunteer initiatives and can direct company-matched donations to causes they care about.
Bloomington Health Foundation has taken a leadership role in helping businesses like Duke Energy connect with meaningful mental health initiatives. By partnering with local nonprofits, healthcare providers, and advocacy organizations, businesses can help address urgent mental health needs while ensuring that their contributions have a lasting impact. The foundation serves as a bridge between corporate philanthropy and community-driven solutions, ensuring resources are allocated where they are most needed.
Breaking the Stigma and Encouraging Utilization
The conversation around mental health in corporate spaces has evolved significantly. “It’s no longer a taboo topic,” Irwin notes. “More employees feel comfortable acknowledging mental health challenges, and companies are responding by expanding support offerings.”
Yet, one major hurdle remains: accessibility. Even when resources like employee assistance programs (EAPs) exist, utilization rates can be low due to stigma or long wait times for care. Organizations must provide these benefits and actively encourage employees to use them by fostering a culture that normalizes mental health discussions. Training managers to recognize signs of mental distress and equipping them with tools to support employees can go a long way in breaking down barriers to care.
Strategic Partnerships for Greater Impact
For businesses looking to deepen their impact, partnerships with local organizations and thought leaders are key. “Companies aren’t necessarily mental health experts—that’s why we rely on organizations like Bloomington Health Foundation to help identify needs and connect us with the right initiatives,” Irwin says. “We try to step up and be a partner and try to bring others along where we can or join efforts that are already underway to help solve community issues.”
The Duke Energy Foundation works at a local level to cultivate meaningful grants for partners who are addressing local issues. Over the years, the Duke Energy Foundation’s local impact grants have supported mental health programming in several Indiana communities. Whether it’s funding crisis response efforts or supporting organizations that provide counseling for underserved populations, these partnerships maximize the reach and effectiveness of corporate giving. By working alongside established leaders in mental health advocacy, businesses can ensure that their investments are impactful and sustainable.
Bloomington Health Foundation has been instrumental in mobilizing resources and fostering collaborations that drive meaningful change. The Mental Health Collaborative, for example, connects corporate donors, healthcare providers, and local agencies to streamline care, increase accessibility, and improve outcomes for individuals in need. Companies looking to enhance their community impact can benefit from engaging in these strategic efforts.
Actionable Steps for Businesses
For companies looking to make a meaningful difference in mental health—both internally and within the community—Irwin offers these recommendations:
- Evaluate Internal Programs – Ensure employees have access to mental health resources, including counseling, wellness programs, and crisis support services. Conduct regular assessments to identify gaps and improve service offerings.
- Foster a Supportive Culture: Normalize mental health conversations, provide managers with training, and create safe spaces for employees to seek help. Offer workshops and peer support groups to encourage open dialogue.
- Engage in the Community: Identify local organizations addressing mental health challenges and explore opportunities to contribute through funding, volunteerism, or advocacy. Companies can participate in and support initiatives close to home, like Bloomington Health Foundation’s Mental Health Collaborative.
- Leverage Strategic Partnerships – Work with established community leaders, like Bloomington Health Foundation, to align business investments with community needs. Businesses can support ongoing programs and collaborate on innovative solutions to expand access to care.
A Collective Responsibility
At the heart of Duke Energy’s efforts is a belief in collective responsibility. “We’re not just providing power; we’re empowering communities,” Irwin says. “By investing in mental health, we’re helping to create vibrant communities where people want to live and work.”
As more businesses recognize the economic and social benefits of prioritizing mental health, the hope is that these investments will lead to lasting change—stronger workplaces, healthier communities, and a future where mental well-being is treated as a business imperative rather than an afterthought. Through initiatives like the Mental Health Collaborative, Bloomington Health Foundation provides businesses with the framework and connections necessary to drive real progress. Our work in bringing together stakeholders ensures that efforts to improve mental health are not only well-funded but also effectively implemented.
Learn more about how to make a difference and connect with Bloomington Health Foundation today.