Empowered is a monthly newsletter for members of
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES BY POWERING YOU
Lives can be transformed by the generosity of neighbors who have never met. Often, these moments happen without the contributor ever realizing the impact they are making. Such is the case for many Central Rural Electric Cooperative members who participate in the cooperative’s Operation Round Up program.
A voluntary program where members round up their monthly electric bill to the nearest dollar, Operation Round Up turns this “extra change” into a collective impact that benefits all communities within Central’s seven-county service area.
Since its inception in 2006, more than $1.3 million in Operation Round Up funds have been distributed through the Central Community Foundation.
The Central Community Foundation is a nonprofit established to administer the funds and ensure they are used effectively. The foundation is governed by a separate board of directors who volunteer their time to review applications and appropriately allocate funds.
An average of $6 per year is collected from participating members. While this contribution may seem insignificant, it has become a resource for meeting local community needs.
Grants have been awarded to help in areas such as health care, disaster relief, education, community initiatives and personal needs.
The Central Community Foundation exists to bridge the gap between
those who want to give back and those who need support. It’s a way to multiply the impact of a member’s individual contributions to make a lasting change.
Operation Round Up is a testament to members empowering our communities. Because of members’ generosity, more than $89,000 was given last year.
The program is a reminder that even in our smallest actions, we can create meaningful change.
To learn more about Operation Round Up, visit mycentral.coop or scan the QR code.
MEMBERS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
FEBRUARY 2025
Central Board of Trustees:
James Wells, President (District 6)
Sid Sperry, Vice President (District 4)
Greg Tytenicz, Secretary/Treasurer (District 2)
Randy Wedel (District 1)
Melanie McGuire (District 3)
Ken Starks (District 5)
Randy Ethridge (District 7)
Sondra White - Interim Chief Executive Officer
Empowered Editors:
Jillianne Tebow - Vice President of Business Development and Marketing
Larry Mattox - Director of Communications
Kory Bowman - Marketing and Communications Specialist
Ivy Swan - Marketing and Communications Specialist
www.mycentral.coop facebook.com/MyCentralCoop instagram.com/MyCentralCoop
Contact Us: editor@mycentral.coop 405-372-2884 | 800-375-2884
3305 S. Boomer Rd. | P.O. Box 1809 Stillwater, OK 74076
Central Rural Electric
The Central Community Foundation Frequently asked questions
What is the Central Community Foundation?
The Central Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping those who live within Central’s seven-county service area by distributing Operation Round Up funds.
Who can apply for funding?
Local nonprofit organizations, schools, community groups and individuals located within Central’s service area can apply for grants. Each applicant’s need must align with the foundation’s guidelines and must demonstrate how their project will benefit the community.
Who decides who receives the funds?
Central Community Foundation board members, who are also Central members, meet every other month to review and approve grant applications.
How do you apply for a grant?
Grants are due on the 15th of every other month. Apply on the Central Community Foundation website at mycentral.foundation
How do i get involved?
1. Participate in Operation Round Up or Operation Round Up Plus 2. Spread the word. Share information about the foundation as a resource for others.
Want to learn more?
Learn more about Operation Round Up and the foundation by scanning the QR code or by visiting mycentral.foundation.
The Central Community Foundation 2024 impact breakdown
Looking for a simple way to save energy? Connected smart devices and apps bring efficiency to your fingertips.
1. Adjust the thermostat! Use the connected app to adjust its settings if you have a smart thermostat.
2. Tired of having to remember when it’s time to replace your HVAC filter? There’s an app for that. Filtrete™’s app allows you to set reminders for one or multiple filters so you’ll never forget.
3. Turn off the lights! Left the downstairs lights on after you’ve already ascended the stairs to the bedroom? If you have smart bulbs and the connected app, correct your mistake from the cozy comfort of your bed.
4. Smart plugs are an efficient solution for those home devices that simply plug into an outlet. Just insert a smart plug into the outlet, then the device into the plug, and you can turn your coffee maker, television and more on or off through the connected app.
CENTRAL LINEMEN HIT CAREER MILESTONES
Two of Central’s linemen, Wyatt Fuller and Hunter Hays, recently achieved a major career milestone by graduating from the Northwest Lineman College.
The two linemen were recognized for their hard work and dedication to mastering their skills at the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives’ apprentice lineman graduation in December. The event recognized the hard work and commitment required to complete the rigorous training.
It takes a lineman apprentice approximately 8,000 hours, roughly four years, of hands-on work and training classes to meet the requirements for certification.
“Graduating from the program shows commitment and a deep understanding of the skills needed to be a lineman,” said Dewayne Drury,
Central linemen Hunter Hays (left) and Wyatt Fuller (right) with their diplomas from the Northwest Lineman College.
Central’s Director of Operations. “Everyone at Central is proud of these guys and the hard work they put into this achievement.”
Hays has been with Central for nearly five years while Fuller will reach four years with Central in September. Fuller previously worked
for Lake Region Electric Cooperative based in Hulbert, Okla. and is a Veteran with the United States Navy.
“We are excited to see them step into their roles as full-fledged linemen,” Drury said.
youth power Energy youth power Energy
Have you ever wanted to climb an electric pole? Current and upcoming eighth-grade students have the opportunity to step into a set of lineman hooks with a summer camp experience at Youth Power Energy Camp on May 27-30.
Campers will have the opportunity to climb a utility pole, take a ride toward the sky in a bucket truck and learn how cooperatives operate!
YOUTH POWER ENERGY CAMP APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN Scan QR code to learn more
Central will sponsor two eighthgrade students who attend school within Central’s service area to take part in this camp for free.
Wannabe campers need to submit a 500-word essay on Central’s website at mycentral.coop/energycamp on ”Why I am the best student to represent Central at Energy Camp.” Applications open February 3 and close April 4.
