Change Makes Change

OEC Foundation board grants $53,550 to local organizations, families

In August 2025, the OEC Foundation board of directors approved $53,550 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.

August Beneficiaries

The latest round of grants supported projects ranging from emergency preparedness to historical education and health services. Here’s how the funds were distributed:

• Newcastle Emergency Management –$3,000: To purchase three Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) with mounting hardware for Newcastle City Hall, the Newcastle Water Department and the Newcastle Community Storm Shelter.

• City Care – $3,000: Supplies to sustain and strengthen the Norman Night Shelter program.

• Hearts For Hearing – $10,000: Funding for hearing services for youth.

• Transition House Norman – $10,000: Assistance for multiple needs, including personal essentials, bedding, apartment supplies and holiday needs.

• Cleveland County Historical Society – $5,000: Support for public exhibits, children’s classes and camps, adult workshops, field trips and flexible community events.

• Assistance League – $10,000: For Operation School Bell, a program providing clothing and essentials to students in need.

• Able, Council for Developmental Disabilities –$10,000: To help install fire sprinkler systems in group homes.

Individual Assistance

In addition to the organizational grants, ORU provided funds for three pairs of prescription glasses and assistance with housing needs 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 November 17, with decisions to be made at the December 4 board meeting. Apply at okcoop.org/oru.

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.