Before oil and gas gets muddy in politics, its trade association shows that the industry has its heart and its dollars in the right place.

The Colorado Oil and Gas Association (COGA) recently gave the Tennyson Center for Children a check for $332,000 to help kids choose a positive path after suffering severe abuse, neglect or trauma.

“The work that Tennyson Center does on behalf of children and families is truly inspirational,” COGA’s chairman, Chip Rimer, senior vice president of Noble Energy, said in a statement. “I am gratified and humbled by the generosity that our industry has shown to this outstanding community partner.

“By working together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless children for years to come.”

Tennyson Center for Children CEO Ned Breslin said he was inspired by the generosity of the oil and gas companies and their members.

“Their energy and passion for Tennyson Center will enable us to help more kids and families in the Colorado communities, like Weld County, where COGA members live and work,” he said,

The 113-year-old center is based in Denver, offering community, school and residential programs for children

“Tennyson Center’s leadership and staff work tirelessly to support children and give them a chance at a new beginning,” stated Dan Haley, COGA’s president and CEO. “Our hats are off to the organization and their entire team for lifting up our community and providing real life second chances to those who deserve it most. Ned and his team are among our community’s brightest lights.”

COGA is the trade association of the oil and gas industry in Colorado, and it will be a pivotal player in the political arena this year. A proposed ballot initiative would keep oil and gas operations at least 2,500 feet from homes and schools, putting much of the state’s rich supply out of reach. The industry group also will likely take a political role in the governor’s race, as Democratic nominee Jared Polis has supported more local control on drilling, as well as plans to push for all renewable energy in the state.