Central Rural Electric Cooperative members give back!

Established in 2006, the Central Community Foundation has given more than a million dollars to people throughout Central’s service area! Administered by an independent board appointed by Central’s board of trustees, funds are distributed to individuals and organizations to assist with projects in one of the following categories:

• Health Care grants provide aid for ambulance services, hospice programs, and construction and renovation of medical facilities and other healthcare-related areas.
• Disaster Relief grants help when homes or property is destroyed or damaged by tornado, fire or flood or other natural disasters.
• Education grants help school programs, and fund projects, equipment, building construction, and renovations.
• Community Purpose grants fund projects that benefit the entire community. Examples include playground equipment, splash pads, community services, etc.
• Personal Need funds projects for individuals that do not fit into one of the other categories. Projects may include assistance for food, clothing or other necessities.

Funds are collected through a program called Operation Round Up, where Central members have the option to round up their monthly electric bill to the nearest dollar. That money is put into the Foundation and then distributed throughout Central’s service area based on grant applications received. On average, $6,500 is added to the Foundation each month. Interested members can also choose to add an additional sum to their monthly bill with Round Up Plus or anyone can make a one-time donation to the fund. To date, Operation Round Up has given more than a million dollars to individuals and organizations throughout Central's seven-county service area!