CEO’s Message: Small Change Makes a Big Difference
Small Change Makes a Big Difference
When I think of moments in time and history that have brought positive change, it is often not the work of one individual, but the collective efforts of many who came together for a mutual cause. Such was the case with the creation of our cooperative, where a small group of people believed in a world where electricity wasn’t limited to the urban skylines of big cities. Together, they worked to bring power and enrich the farms and families of rural Suwannee Valley. This same spirit of collaboration continues to thrive in the creation and achievements of our foundation, Operation Round Up.
Established in 2019, Operation Round Up aims to help meet the significant funding needs of our local schools. Each month, participating members’ bills are rounded up to the next dollar, with the difference placed into a grant fund that directly benefits local classrooms. While the average monthly donation is just 49 cents, these small contributions have added up in a big way, with nearly $650,000 awarded in the program’s six years.
This success is only made possible through the continued generosity and support of our members. Your participation in Operation Round Up is investing in the future success of local children by providing essential classroom resources, such as books, online learning programs, lab equipment, and so much more, to support education and enhance their learning experience.
In this newsletter, we’re excited to highlight two recent grant recipients who used Operation Round Up to bring real-life robotics and coding instruction to their classrooms. Thanks to their grant, students are gaining hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)—a testament to the impact your contributions are having on brighter futures.
This issue also includes details about our annual scholarship for eligible high school seniors. We encourage interested students to review the information and apply by the March 21 deadline. You’ll also find photos from recent community events, including our 7th Annual Arbor Day Tree Giveaway and the MLK Day Parade, hosted by the Suwannee County MLK Committee.
These are just a few of the ways SVEC and our consumer-members are making a difference in our schools and our community. It serves as a reminder that when we work together, we can meet needs and create positive change—after all, that is the cooperative way. As always, it is our privilege to serve you.
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