San Diego Gas & Electric® (SDG&E®) has a long-standing tradition of service – not only to its customers, but also to the communities where its employees live and work. SDG&E supports a range of initiatives through shareholder contributions, employee giving programs and volunteer efforts that drive positive change across the region. Through meaningful collaboration with local nonprofits, SDG&E is helping to build a future that is more equitable, sustainable and full of opportunity.
Learn more at www.sdge.com/community
Powering Change Through Volunteerism
SDG&E is proud to foster a culture of giving back. Last year, Team SDG&E dedicated more than 10,000 hours to causes close to their hearts, and their passion for making a difference continues to drive them toward that milestone again in 2025.
During the winter holidays, hundreds of employees come together to make a difference through the annual SDGivE Program, leading volunteer projects that support more than 50 nonprofit organizations across the region in just six weeks.
One employee who truly exemplifies this spirit of service is Jude Awiylika, an SDG&E engineer whose passion for volunteerism has made a lasting impact on the lives of foster youth in San Diego. Jude has become a champion for Promises2Kids, a nonprofit that supports more than 2,000 current and former foster youth each year. The organization provides critical tools, opportunities and guidance to help youth overcome the challenges of their past and build successful futures.
Jude embodies what it means to be a compassionate and inspiring role model. As one of the original mentors of the Promises2Kids Black Group program, he has helped create a culturally affirming space where young Black men and women feel seen, supported and empowered to navigate life’s challenges. His thoughtful mentorship has made a lasting impact on youth who are often navigating complex personal journeys.
During SDGivE, Jude plays a key role in supporting Promises2Kids’ annual Holiday Gift Drives, helping to sort and distribute more than 10,000 gifts each year. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was named Group Mentor of the Year at the 2025 Promises2Kids Volunteer Appreciation event and was an Outstanding Volunteer finalist at the 2025 Association of Funding Professionals National Philanthropy Day. His story is just one example of how SDG&E employees are making a meaningful impact beyond the workplace, living out the company’s values through service.
Jude’s Journey of Giving Back
Learn more about how Jude’s spirit of volunteerism has impacted countless foster youth.
Q: What is your favorite part about volunteering with Promises2Kids?
Awiylika: Volunteering with Promises2Kids has been one of my most rewarding experiences, offering moments that are both heartwarming and inspiring. It fosters a sense of connection, especially as the youth become more comfortable sharing their goals and strengths. These interactions often lead to unexpected stories, laughter and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives.
Q: Why is it important to work for a company that gives back?
Awiylika: Working for a company that gives back to the community is essential. When a company supports causes, invests in the community and encourages employees to make a difference, it shows that it values people. It is my belief that when a company gives back, it builds trust and creates a butterfly effect of positive change.
Q: How has volunteering made a positive impact on your life?
Awiylika: Volunteering brings a sense of purpose and personal growth. It challenges me to step outside my comfort zone, develop new skills and gain insights that enrich my professional and personal life.
Q: Why would you encourage others to volunteer?
Awiylika: Volunteering is not always about giving; it is also about growing. One of the more insightful things I have learned through volunteering is how much impact one single person can have. Whether it is mentoring someone or a group, even small acts of kindness can ripple outward in ways you might never fully see.
Leading with Purpose
Jude’s ongoing support drives Promises2Kids’ mission forward. “Jude is a dynamic and consistent leader whose dedication has been critical to the growth and resilience of Promises2Kids,” shared Tonya Torosian, MSW, CEO of Promises2Kids. “Jude’s leadership has stood out as a stabilizing force. For foster youth, consistency is one of the greatest gifts anyone can give. Jude has had an incredible impact on our youths’ lives, showing up with patience, care and an intentional approach. His passion, consistency and leadership make him an invaluable advocate and role model for the foster youth community.”
