Through The Power of Change, Rapphannock Electric Cooperative (REC) member-owners voluntarily donate to nonprofit organizations serving people in need. Since 2005, the program has provided more than $1.8 million to nonprofits across REC's service territory.
Twice a year, member-owner donations are distributed to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits for projects related to food insecurity, housing and shelter assistance, health and education, and other community needs. Recent recipients included the Fairy Godmother Project in Fredericksburg, Cars Changing Lives in Front Royal and the Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Company. A full list is available at myrec.coop/recipients.
Thousands of REC member-owners support the program through recurring monthly donations, one-time gifts or by rounding up their electric bill to the next whole dollar. The average round-up is 51 cents per month, but together those donations generate more than $200,000 each year for nonprofits serving low-income residents, senior citizens, veterans and others in need.
Nonprofits may apply online during two annual application periods: December through Feb. 10 and June through Aug. 10. Organizations may submit one application in a 12-month period. Funding decisions are made in March and September, with funds distributed in April and October.
Visit thepowerofchange.org to apply by Aug. 10, 2026.
