Nearly 16 years ago, Palmetto Electric Cooperative (Hardeeville, S.C.), founded Operation Round Up® to help people in need.

The innovative idea of rounding up participating members' bills to the nearest dollar allowed the cooperative to donate thousands of dollars on behalf of its members. From contributing to the Boys and Girls Clubs to supporting an Alzheimer's foundation, funds raised help make a difference in their communities.

It didn't take long for Georgia's EMCs to join in the Round Up to impact their own communities. Our neighbor, Walton EMC (Monroe, Ga.) used ORU funds to help the Dream House for Medically Fragile Children expand its facilities. Sawnee EMC (Cumming, Ga.) funded projects like Habitat for Humanity and a volunteer fire department. Everything from scholarships to buying equipment summarizes the good EMC members are able to do within their own communities.

We'd all like to be able to give when asked; however, some needs are too great for one person. In times like those, you can be assured that Operation Round Up funds are available and given in the name of Jackson EMC members. Starting in October, participating members will see just how far a few cents a month can go in the communities served by Jackson EMC.

For more information on Operation Round Up, please visit our Web site at www.jacksonemc.com/roundup.