Oakdale REC

Operation Round-Up

Small Change That Changes Lives

Jellystone - Pat Christensen (left), presents a donation to John Harlan, Session Coordinator at Camp Sunshine

Since Oakdale Electric Cooperative was formed in 1936, we have been dedicated to helping the people in our area live better lives, not only with affordable electric power, but through our involvement in a number of important community endeavors.

Now with Operation Round-Up, an innovative community service fund raising program, we can share a simple and rewarding way for Oakdale Electric members to help support worthwhile projects in our service areas.

Operation Round-Up is just what the name implies. Each month, OEC Electric simply "rounds up" the electric bill of participating members to the next highest dollar. For example, a member's monthly bill of $52.73 would be automatically rounded up to $53.00, with the additional 27 cents going to the Operation Round-Up fund. This small, tax deductible contribution may not seem like much, but the dollars add up quickly when enough members participate. When an Oakdale member signs up for the program, our computer is programmed to round up the bill. A summary of your contributions will appear on your January bill. If you change your mind about participating, simply contact our office.

The Operation Round-Up Trust Board has awarded over $12,000 in donations through the Operation Round-Up Program to non-profit organizations since the program began in February 2002. Click here to see a pictures and a list of organizations and communities that have benefited from the generosity of OEC members who participate in Operation Round-Up.

It's easy to participate.
Simply complete the on-line enrollment form. You can also enroll by stopping by the cooperative office or contacting us at 607-372-4131 or 800-241-2468. Enrollment is strictly voluntary. Members can withdraw their enrollment or rejoin the program at any time by contacting us.

Application for Donation - Individual and/or Family

Application for Donation – Group

Frequently Asked Questions

How will the program affect my energy bill?
OEC will "round up" the energy bill of participating members based on the members' selected donations. You may request us to automatically "round up" your energy bill to the nearest dollar (Example: If your energy bill was $41.20 or $41.95, it would automatically be "rounded up" to $42.); or, you may request that your energy bill be "rounded up" each month based on a specific dollar amount that you choose (Example: If your energy bill was $41.20 and you chose to "round up" your bill by $2.00 each month, it would automatically be "rounded up" to $43.20). Your selected donation will appear as a separate line item on your energy bill as "Operation Round Up".

How are Operation Round Up® funds used?
Operation Round Up® monies are used to benefit individuals, families, and community service organizations within the areas served by OEC. You don't have to be a member of OEC to apply for assistance. Examples of how these funds can be used include: emergency assistance following fires or natural disasters; assistance with major medical expenses, medical equipment, and home repairs for the elderly and handicapped; and supplies for local food shelves.

In establishing the program, certain guidelines were adopted. Funds cannot be used for political purposes or to reimburse OEC for any expenses or unpaid energy usage. Approval of applications is subject to the funds available.

Who is responsible for administering the Operation Round Up Program®?
The Operation Round-Up Board of Directors is composed of seven Oakdale Electric Cooperative members. The Board will meet quarterly (February, May, August, and November). Any applications will be considered at that time. However, applications for Operation Round Up® may also be considered at any time on a case-by-case basis.

How are Operation Round Up® funds applied for?
An application designated for either an individual and/or family or a community service organization/agency must be completed and forwarded to the cooperative. The applications are reviewed by the Operation Round-Up Board and a decision is made on disbursement of funds.

Are Operation Round Up® donations limited to cooperative members?
No. Donations may be made to any individual, family or community service organization/agency within the communities served by OEC.

What types of donations are made with Operation Round Up® funds?
According to the Guidelines, the Board can make donations to any worthwhile cause, with the exception that no Operation Round Up® funds can be used for political purposes or to pay energy bills.

Are Operation Round Up® donations tax deductible?
No. OEC is not a charitable organization exempt under I.R.C. section 501(c)(3), so contributions are not tax deductible.

What is the average annual contribution of a member to Operation Round Up®?
The average contribution is $6.00 per year.

Are cooperative members required to contribute to Operation Round Up®?
No. Participation is strictly voluntary. Members can withdraw their enrollment or rejoin the program at any time.

Big Brothers – Tom Clay (left), presents a donation to Jill Ballantyne, Director of Big Brothers-Big Sister of Juneau County

Hannah Schroeder Benefit