Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s Operation Round Up program has surpassed $7 million in community grants since its inception in 1993, marking a major milestone driven by the generosity of its members.
Funded by voluntary contributions from OEC members, including some who live in Newcastle, who round up their monthly electric bills, the program supports individuals and organizations across the cooperative’s seven-county service area.
The achievement reflects more than three decades of steady giving and local impact.
“This milestone belongs to our members,” said Carrie Koesler, Community Outreach associate. “We’re honored to help steward their generosity, and it’s incredible to see how small monthly contributions have grown into $7 million of real support for our communities.”
OEC launched Operation Round Up in 1993 as part of itslong-standingcommitment to improving quality of life in central Oklahoma. Participating members contribute an average of about $6 per year, with funds pooled and distributed through grants managed by the OEC Foundation.
Today, the program generates roughly $20,000 each month to assist with needs such as food, housing, medical care, education and disaster response.
“Every dollar represents a neighbor helping a neighbor,” said Brandy Everett, president of the OEC Foundation board of directors. “Reaching $7 million shows what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose.”
The OEC Foundation, governed by a nine-member volunteer board, reviews grant applications every other month. The board directs funding to initiatives that provide lasting community benefit, while excluding requests for utility bill payments or political purposes.
To find more information and apply, go to okcoop.org/ oru.
Since its founding, the program has supported a wide range of needs, from nonprofit services and youth programs to individual assistance such as medical care, accessibility equipment and essential household items.
OEC traces its roots to 1937, when local farmers formed a cooperative to bring electricity to rural areas that investor- owned utilities would not serve. That same community investment continues today throughprogramslikeOperation Round Up.
Members who wish to contribute beyond rounding up their bills can make additional donations through OEC’s website. Community members seeking assistance can apply for grants ahead of upcoming 2026 deadlines: May 22, July 20, September 21 and November 20.
Koesler said the milestone serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the cooperative’s mission.
“Our members make this possible,”Koeslersaid.“Their support strengthens the impact of every cent donated.”
Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is Oklahoma’s largest member-owned electric cooperative, and OEC Fiber is the state’s largest wholly-owned broadband subsidiary.
OEC provides electricity to over 65,000 accounts and broadband services to over 43,000 subscribers in seven central Oklahoma counties.
The service area includes approximately 2,200 square miles with 5,900 miles of electric lineand4,000milesoffiber line.
