Making a difference with REA's Operation Round Up

ALEXANDRIA — Through the contributions of Runestone Electric Association's participating members, the Operation Round Up Trust Board recently approved $12,970 to assist local community programs during its quarterly meeting.

REA’s Operation Round Up Trust Board, a voluntary board of seven REA members, reviewed and considered 34 grant applications and distributed funds to 27 projects and programs this past quarter.

Community-based projects and programs have received over $1.2 million since the program's inception in 2003.

Fire departments and first responders: Osakis Fire Department – communication update ($1,000) and Holmes City First Responders – AED ($1,000).

Food shelf: Long Prairie Emergency Food Pantry – food supplies ($500) and Hoffman Kensington Area Food Shelf – food supplies ($1,000).

Youth: Hancock Post Prom – post prom prizes ($200); Osakis Post Prom – post prom prizes ($200); Alexandria Senior Graduation Party – prizes ($200); Brandon-Evansville Trapshooting Team – funds for target rounds ($250); West Central Area School Post Prom – games and activities ($200); MAHS Clay Target Association – reduce fees for participants ($250) and Kid’s Groundwater Festival – supplies ($500).

Community: City of Farwell – AED battery and pads ($320); Andes Ski Patrol – defibrillator ($500); Douglas County DAC – provide inclusive opportunities for those with disabilities ($500); Alexandria Figure Skating Club – performance team ($250); Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 235 – purchase/replace Honor Guard uniforms and flags ($500); Lake Ann Cemetery – weed control ($300); Someplace Safe Douglas Advocacy Office – Empowerment Group supplies ($1,000); Alexandria Gray Ladies – canteen supplies ($450); Wendell Legion & Auxiliary Post 426 – Veterans memorial preservation ($300); Glenwood Lakes Area Welcome Center – sound equipment ($500); Prairie Lakes Audubon Chapter – osprey nest platform camera ($500); Calvary Quilters – quilt batting and backing ($300); Productive Alternatives Alexandria Services – AED ($500) and The Caring and Sharing Room – blankets and mattress pads ($1,000).

Senior: Alexandria Senior Quilters – quilt batting ($300) and Alexandria Senior Center – remodeling ($450).

The deadline to apply for the next round of funding is May 12. Apply at www.RunestoneElectric.com .

Runestone Electric Association serves over 15,000 accounts in rural areas of Douglas, Pope, Grant, Stevens, Ottertail, Stearns and Todd Counties.