Change Makes Change

OEC Foundation board grants $58,150 to local organizations, families

In October 2025, the OEC Foundation board of directors approved $58,150 in grants to support a wide range of local organizations and individuals. Funded by thousands of OEC members who voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, these grants are part of Operation Round Up (ORU)—a program focused on improving lives through direct community investment.

October Beneficiaries

The latest round of grants supported efforts ranging from holiday meals to Special Olympics participation, care packages and fire department equipment. Here’s how the funds were distributed:

• The Virtue Center $2,500: community outreach programs.

• Society of St. Vincent de Paul, South Central District Council $12,000: Bed program providing beds to those in need.

• Bridge Creek Annual Food Baskets $2,500: To help purchase perishable and non-perishable food items for the annual Christmas food basket program.

• BACA International Inc – Central OK Chapter $2,500: Personalized care packages for children, including backpacks filled with branded items such as teddy bears, dog tags and bracelets.

• Special Olympics Oklahoma $1,000: Support for the Winter Games.

• Grady County Fire Department, Pocasset Station $4,000: To purchase two double-sided mobile gear racks.

• Fostering Futures $10,000: To purchase clothing and hygiene products to maintain inventory for the Luggage with Love program.

• The Willows Apartment – Working for Independent Living $2,050: Christmas meals and gifts for residents.

• Blanchard Special Olympic Games $1,500: Entry fees, uniforms, meals, equipment, bus drivers and gas.

• Lexington Fire Department $5,000: Twenty pairs of structural firefighting boots.

• Mission Norman $10,000: Turkeys for holiday giveaway.

Individual Assistance

In addition to the organizational grants, ORU provided assistance for four pairs of prescription glasses and one set of dentures for individuals in the community.

How It Works

Roughly 80% of OEC members participate in Operation Round Up, contributing an average of $6 per year. These small, voluntary donations add up to make a powerful impact, supporting critical programs related to health, safety, education and quality of life.

Every application is reviewed by a nine-member board of the OEC Foundation to ensure each grant goes to initiatives with meaningful, lasting benefits. Since the program began 32 years ago, ORU has distributed more than $5 million in support of food, shelter, medical care, education and more.

Next Grant Cycle

The next deadline to apply for Operation Round Up grants is January 23, with decisions to be made at the February 5 board meeting. Apply at okcoop.org/oru.

For more information or to apply, contact Carrie Koesler at ORU@okcoop.org or call (405) 217-6726.