More Than A Partnership

We recently caught up with Steve Reed, the Athletic Director at Santiam Christian School, to discuss the growing partnership between the school and Pure Energy Group. This collaboration isn’t just about one area—it spans across several programs, from athletics to community involvement. Here’s a look at how our partnership is making a difference.

Q: Can you tell us a little about how Pure Energy Group came to be involved in the school’s sponsorship program? What drew you to work with us as a partner?
Reed: "What really drew me to Pure Energy Group was their focus on giving back. They were already actively supporting programs at the school, and when we saw how Pure Energy was focused on investing in the community—not just taking—everything clicked. Their desire to contribute to the school, and to give students the resources to succeed, made them a great fit for us."

Q: You recently had Pure Energy Group’s logo printed on your main gym floor. How important is it for the school to have local businesses like Pure Energy Group involved in supporting school activities?
Reed: "It’s incredibly important. The cost of running school programs often exceeds what we can generate through internal funding, so the support of local businesses makes a huge difference. Having businesses like Pure Energy Group involved helps show our students that the whole community is backing them. It’s not just about athletics—it’s about all the programs that help students grow."

Q: What impact has Pure Energy Group’s sponsorship had on the school, both in terms of financial support and community visibility?
Reed: "The impact has been substantial. Financially, it’s allowed us to invest in long term needs such as new equipment, upgrades to our training room, chairs and a new scoreboard. On the visibility side, it’s helped raise awareness about the efforts we’re making to improve the school. The support is visible to students, staff, and the larger community, which motivates everyone to get more involved."

Q: Can you speak to how Pure Energy Group’s support has helped the school enhance its programs or facilities, specifically through sponsorships or other forms of involvement?
Reed: "Pure Energy Group’s support isn’t just about funding—it’s also about creating long-term improvements. The gym floor with their logo, for example, isn’t just a sponsorship—it’s a symbol of the investment we’re making in the future of our school. Through their contributions, we’ve been able to improve facilities and resources across the board, from athletics to student services."

Q: How does the school view its relationship with local businesses in terms of creating opportunities for students, such as internships, mentorships, or even future job placements?
Reed: "We’ve got a great college and career prep program, and local businesses play a crucial role in preparing students for the next stage of their lives. By partnering with Pure Energy Group, students can see what it means to be supported by local companies, and they can gain access to internships, mentorships, and potential job opportunities. It’s a win-win for both sides."

Q: In your opinion, why is it important for local businesses to invest in the community, especially in ways that support education and local schools?
Reed: "Investing in local schools isn’t just about supporting the students—it’s about investing in the community as a whole. The students today are the employees and leaders of tomorrow. When businesses help create opportunities for students, they’re contributing to a stronger, more vibrant community that benefits everyone."

Q: What kind of feedback have you received from students, staff, or parents about the partnership with Pure Energy Group and the visibility of the sponsorship?
Reed: "The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. At first, some were surprised, since it’s a new partnership, but now people are noticing the changes. The new gym floor looks fantastic, and it’s more than just an aesthetic upgrade—it’s a reminder of the support we have from the community. Students, staff, and parents alike are seeing the improvements and recognizing the efforts we’re putting into growing the program."

Q: How does Pure Energy Group’s involvement reflect the school’s mission to create a sense of pride and opportunity for students?
Reed: "The school’s mission is all about putting others first, and creating students who are ready to serve their community, just like Christ taught us. Pure Energy Group’s support aligns perfectly with that mission. By showing up for us, they’re modeling the kind of selflessness and generosity we hope to instill in our students. It’s not just about taking—it’s about giving back, putting others before yourself. This partnership helps our students see that they, too, can make a real difference and be the ones giving back to the community one day, just as others have done for them."

Q: What do you hope the future holds for the partnership between Pure Energy Group and the school? Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’d like to highlight?
Reed: "We’re really excited about what the future holds. One of our big upcoming projects is the new athletic facility we’ve purchased next door. It’s going to be a game-changer for our high school sports, and we’ll definitely need the support of local businesses and donors to bring it to life. We hope Pure Energy Group will continue to be a key partner as we expand and grow our programs. This new facility will open up more opportunities for students and the entire community."

We say it often, but it's true—our business is about more than just solar. Our partnership between Pure Energy Group and Santiam Christian School is a prime example of how we join forces with local businesses and to create lasting, positive change. Beyond providing solar, we’re helping to build a stronger community by actively engaging in programs that benefit students, teachers, and families alike. Whether it's through community involvement, creating career opportunities, or supporting essential facilities, this partnership goes beyond the classroom. We're proud to be a part of this growth and look forward to seeing how our collaboration continues to create a meaningful impact in the lives of the Santiam Christian community.