The total number of grants issued through Tri-County EMC’s Operation RoundUp program recently passed the $2 million mark. Established in 2000 as an extension of the electric cooperative principle of Concern for the Community, member donations accumulated through the program are added to a community fund, which results in thousands of dollars given in grants each year. The fund is administered by the Tri-County Electric Foundation Board.
Tri-County EMC General Manager Mike Davis (right) presents a $7,500 grant to Indian Springs Fire Chief Phil Shivar and fireman Collin Hall (left).
Through an application process, grants are distributed quarterly to worthy causes and organizations in Tri-County EMC communities. Members who participate contribute an average of only $6 per year, demonstrating that little things really do make a difference.
“About 94 percent of our membership participates by rounding up their electric bills to the nearest dollar,” said Tri-County EMC General Manager Mike Davis. “It’s a great example of how when we come together, we can make a huge impact in our communities, and reaching $2 million is a testament to the value of cooperative membership.”
Davis added that many of the recipient organizations wouldn’t be able to provide certain services without help from Tri-County EMC members. One example involves a grant was recently presented to Sarecta Fire Department to assist with the purchase of a rescue boat, giving firefighters one more tool in rescue operations.