Operation Round Up
Charitable giving at MWEC is directed through the cooperative's Operation Round Up® program which is funded by those members who "round up" their monthly energy bill to the next highest dollar. The "round up" difference, an average of 50 cents per month per member, is held in trust for charitable purposes. Operation Round Up funds are awarded on an application basis to needy individuals and community-based, non-profit organizations. Political purposes and for-profit organizations are not eligible for funding. The funding decisions of the program are made solely by the Operation Round Up Board of Directors in accordance with the program's bylaws.
Download an Application for Donation here or pick one up at any of the MWEC locations.
You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader on your computer to download the application. If you do not have a copy, you can download Acrobat Reader free from Adobe. After downloading the application, print it out, sign it and return it to the address on the application.
For more information please contact Chris Brostuen (800.279.2667, brostuen@mwec.com).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who decides where the money collected from Operation Round Up goes?
A: Two five-member, volunteer boards, organized as Mountrail Cooperative Trust and Williams Cooperative Trust, meet on a quarterly basis to review applications and award funding.
Q: Who can serve on the Trust Board of Directors?
A: Anyone who is at least 18 years of age, a permanent resident of the county from which he is chosen, and of good moral character.
Q: Are the Directors of the Trust paid?
A: No, they are only compensated for mileage and out-of-pocket expenses.
Q: Who can apply for assistance to Operation Round Up?
A: Individuals and nonprofit organizations can apply using forms provided by MWEC. Completed forms can be returned to MWEC or to a Trust board member.
Q: Are there limits on the amounts awarded?
A: Yes. No more than $2,500 will be given annually to any individual, group, organization or charity. However, by a vote of at least four of the five directors, the Trust may exceed these limits if they feel it's in keeping with the purpose and spirit of the Trust.
Q: What uses are specifically prohibited for Operation Round Up money?
A: No funds of the Trust can be used to support any candidate for political office or for any political purpose. No funds can be used to support any type of for-profit organization or venture.
Q: If I participate, how much will I contribute?
A: The average contribution will be about $.50 per month or about six dollars a year.
Q: What if I decide at a later date I want to withdraw from the program?
A: You can withdraw at any time by notifying MWEC by phone, in person or in writing.
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