OEC Employees Volunteer at Special Olympics Oklahoma Summer Games
Employees joined electric cooperative volunteers from across the state to support athletes and demonstrate the cooperative principle of Concern for Community.
Supporting our communities extends beyond providing reliable electric service. Every year, OEC employees volunteer alongside fellow electric cooperatives from across Oklahoma to help make the Special Olympics Oklahoma Summer Games a success.
This year’s event, held in Stillwater, welcomed thousands of athletes, unified partners, coaches and family members for three days of competition, encouragement and celebration.
Serving Athletes Across Oklahoma
Seven OEC representatives volunteered during the 2026 Summer Games:
- District 7 Trustee Danny Watters
- Community Outreach Associate Carrie Koesler
- Service Technician Shane Dominey
- Member Service Associate Lindy Herzog
- Chief Meter Technician Jimmie Turnpaugh
- OEC Fiber Sales & Business Developer Isaac Lewis
- Journeyman Power Lineman Andy Bills
OEC volunteers were among hundreds of electric cooperative employees, family members and supporters who assisted with track and field events throughout the competition.
From athlete staging and event operations to recording placings and cheering competitors on, volunteers helped create a positive experience for every athlete.
This year’s Summer Games welcomed more than 7,000 athletes and unified partners from across Oklahoma, with thousands of coaches, family members and supporters gathering to celebrate their accomplishments.
The Power of Encouragement
“Being part of the Summer Games reminds you how powerful encouragement can be,” Community Outreach Associate Carrie Koesler said.
“The athletes bring so much determination, joy and heart to every event. It was inspiring to see our cooperative family come together to support them and help create such a memorable experience.”
District 7 Trustee Danny Watters echoed that sentiment.
“The athletes’ enthusiasm is contagious, and seeing them achieve their goals makes every moment worthwhile,” Watters said. “It is an honor to represent OEC and support an event that celebrates determination, sportsmanship and community.”
Supporting Special Olympics Beyond the Games
OEC’s commitment extends beyond volunteering.
Through the OEC Foundation, Inc., Operation Round Up® provides annual funding to area Special Olympics teams. That support is made possible by OEC members who voluntarily round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar, allowing those extra cents to make a meaningful difference throughout our communities.
Living the Cooperative Difference
A total of 22 Oklahoma electric cooperatives and cooperative organizations participated in this year’s Summer Games, with more than 280 volunteers serving throughout the three-day event.
For decades, Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives have supported Special Olympics Oklahoma as an expression of the cooperative principle of Concern for Community.
Whether through volunteer service or charitable giving, OEC is proud to stand alongside organizations that create opportunities for athletes of all abilities while strengthening the communities we proudly serve.