Due to the generosity of over 27,000 REC member-owners, 11 local organizations were recently awarded grants totaling more than $74,200. These awards were made possible because of the contributions made to The Power of Change, REC's member-funded charitable program.
Through The Power of Change, REC member-owners either round up their bill to the next whole dollar, make a one-time donation or give a set monthly amount. Those donations are then awarded twice each year to non-profits and charitable organizations throughout the communities REC serves.
Local recipients of The Power of Change fall 2020 funding awards include:
Blue Ridge Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship, Clarke County, received $2,570 to help replace two saddles and a damaged informational bulletin board, as well as purchase sturdy storage cabinets for veterinary, grooming and other supplies.
Earthquest, Inc., Rapidan, received $11,332 to help with the second phase of building mews, safe and comfortable homes for birds of prey.
Gwyneth's Gift Foundation, Fredericksburg area, received $9,240 to purchase 240 hands-on CPR training kits.
John H. Enders Volunteer Fire & Rescue Company, Clarke County, received $2,000 to assist in the implementation of a Junior Firefighters Program.
LOWLINC, Orange County, received $760 to purchase COVID-19 safety kits for volunteers and members.
Our Health, Inc., Frederick County, received $5,000 to replace ten outdated computers, add a teacher workstation and download software for training programs.
Piedmont Environmental Council, Fauquier County, received $5,000 to purchase 1,366 gallons of milk to be donated to those struggling with food insecurity.
Safe Harbor Child Advocacy Center, Fredericksburg area, received $5,000 to go towards phone interpretation services, updating their website, provide information in both Spanish and English and transportation vouchers; as well as training costs, child protective services, prosecutor fees and medical care.
Stafford Hospital Foundation, Stafford County, received $12,475 to purchase 25 iPads for the Stafford Hospital women's and pediatrics units.
St. George's Episcopal Church, Fredericksburg area, received $15,000 to assist in the delivery of fresh produce to nine sites for 14 weeks.
Wings of Hope Ranch, Inc., Hanover County, received $5,850 for the purchase of laptops and software to increase operational efficiency and their capacity to assist the community.
"Whether members make a one-time donation or round up their electric bill each month, together their donations add up and make a huge difference for local organizations," said Matt Faulconer, manager of External Affairs. "Enrolling in The Power of Change only takes a few minutes, but the impact is monumental."
REC members who would like to help make a difference in their communities can learn more at myrec.coop/power-change. Gifts can be a set monthly amount, a one-time donation or members can have their bill rounded up to the next whole dollar.
