DETROIT, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire/ Despite tough economic times, DTE Energy employees and retirees dug deep into their pockets in 2008 to contribute $1.95 million to the United Way and other nonprofit organizations. The DTE Energy Foundation matched those donations with an additional $1.06 million, for a total of more than $3 million. "In times like these, the work of nonprofit organizations is critical, and it's more important than ever to support their efforts," said Anthony F. Earley, Jr., DTE Energy chairman and chief executive officer. "It says so much about our employees that even in a struggling economy, their generosity and concern for others in unwavering." DTE Energy employees and retirees pledged nearly $1.6 million to the 2009 United Way campaign. The DTE Energy Foundation provided an additional $750,000, bringing the company's contribution to $2.35 million. Those funds will be distributed to 34 United Way chapters across Michigan. DTE Energy employees contributed $249,193 to educational and cultural institutions in 2008, which was matched by the DTE Energy Foundation with $216,057, for a total of $465,250. DTE Energy employees and the DTE Energy Foundation gave more than $207,000 during a six-week holiday fund-raising drive for groups that provide food and shelter to those in need. DTE Energy employees donated $104,844 to these human services organizations, which was matched by the Foundation with an additional $102,844. Another $184,500 was contributed by the DTE Energy Foundation to nonprofit organizations on behalf of DTE Energy employees and retirees who volunteer in their communities. The Foundation's Walter J. McCarthy Awards for Volunteer Leadership recognize individual employees and retirees for their community involvement. Each award includes a grant made to a nonprofit organization designated by the recipients. Since it was established in 1990, the program has awarded $1.2 million to community groups statewide. DATASOURCE: DTE Energy CONTACT: For additional information, members of the media may call: Eileen Dixon, +1-313-235-9154, or Lorie Kessler, +1-313-235-8807, both of DTE Energy Web site: http://www.dteenergy.com/

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