Change Makes Change—June 25 | OEC News

In April 2025, the OEC Foundation board of directors approved $87,600 in grants to a variety of local organizations and individuals. This initiative, sustained by the thousands of OEC members who voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, supports Operation Round Up (ORU), a program dedicated to funding local charitable causes.

The April grants were allocated to several organizations focused on community welfare. Here’s a breakdown of the recipients and their initiatives:

April Beneficiaries

• Royal Society of Robotics: travel assistance: $2,000
• Little Axe High School BPA: travel assistance to a national conference: $6,500
• Newcastle & Blanchard Chamber: community drive for school supplies: $7,500
• Norman Lions Club: provides eye exams & glasses: $10,000
• Dale K Graham Veterans Foundation: supports veterans’ needs: $10,000
• Community and Family Connectors Inc.: supports children, families and the elderly: $5,000
• Chickasha Police Department: privatized mental health assistance: $4,000
• Children’s Medical Research, Inc.: Success Program: $5,000
• Oklahoma Heroes Outdoors: hunting expeditions: $6,000
• Outrageous Love DBA Joe’s Addiction: groceries for the underserved: $5,000
• VIVAVANCE Inc.: children’s vision screenings: $5,000
• Friends of the Mustang Library: reading program: $3,500
• Mobile Smiles: dental care for communities: $15,000

In addition to organizational grants, $3,100 was allocated to support individual needs, including household goods, home repair assistance, and an ADA-compliant stove.

How It Works

About 80% of OEC members participate in rounding up their bills, contributing an average of $6 per year. These funds allow ORU to fuel critical programs that strengthen the community. Each application undergoes review by the nine-member OEC Foundation board, ensuring grants are awarded to initiatives with meaningful and lasting impacts.

Since its inception 32 years ago, ORU has awarded over $5 million in grants, supporting a wide range of services, including food, shelter, healthcare and education. The program’s support builds stronger, more interconnected communities.

For those in need of assistance or organizations interested in applying for ORU grants, the application process is ongoing. Applications submitted by July 18 will be reviewed at the next board meeting on August 4. For more information, contact Carrie Koesler at ORU@okcoop.org or call (405) 217-6726.

OEC is committed to supporting its members and communities, emphasizing its mission to positively impact lives through ORU.