The Daily News

Dakota Valley Electric Cooperative has once again given back to the communities they serve in a series of charitable grants, which in this instance total more than $10,000.

The grants are awarded by Operation Round Up, a board of directors appointed by Dakota Valley, twice a year.

"Part of their criteria is they're supposed to divide the money equitably throughout our system," said Michelle Berry, Dakota Valley Electric Cooperative staff assistant.

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The endowments are collected over the course of six months by co-op members who voluntarily have their electric bill rounded up to the nearest dollar.

"You wouldn't think there'd be a lot of dollars there, but we essentially award $20K a year," said Keath Borchert, president of Operation Round Up Board of Directors. "The beauty of it is it comes back and serves individual communities and individuals in the cooperative area."

Fourteen not for profit organizations were recipients of a grant award, including five from Richland County. All received $440, respectively.

The Wyndmere American Legion has designated their grant money toward building improvements and the Wyndmere Park Board plans to put their $440 toward playground equipment for their park system.

Neil Klosterman, a Mooreton fire fighter, indicated the Mooreton Rural Fire District recently hired seven new fire fighters and is in need of fire gear for the crew members.

"They're a couple thousand dollars per person, so every little bit helps," Klosterman said.

Although the Great Bend Park Board recently installed a sand volleyball court in their city park, the $440 they received will help further park developments. Steve Manock, park board commissioner, said they'd like to install a gazebo and additional playground equipment.

Cares for Cancer, an annual benefit held in Hankinson to support Riveredge Hospice, will add their allocation to funds already assisting hospice care.

"I'm a full supporter and advocate for Operation Round Up," said Dave Paulson, benefit coordinator.

In addition to supporting non-profits, Operation Round Up also assists individuals with medical expenses that insurance may not cover. This year four individuals were presented with $1,000, respectively.

Since the program began in December 2002, it has awarded $142,395 to 299 local charitable causes.

"It's a win-win, feel good situation," Borchert said. "Any acknowledgment really goes back to the individuals in the cooperative that are providing the resources."

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