(CUMMING, GA) – The Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation (Foundation) is thrilled to announce the distribution of $26,645 in grants to local charitable organizations, Georgia-certified teachers and the University of North Georgia Foundation. These funds, made possible by the generous contributions of Sawnee EMC members through the Operation Round Up program, will significantly impact our community.

Operation Round Up allows members to round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the difference directed into the Sawnee Electric Foundation. These small contributions, averaging about $6 per year per member, collectively make a big difference. The Foundation's volunteer Board of Trustees manages the distribution of these funds through grants.

For the 1st Quarter, the Foundation Board has approved a total of $10,700 for local charitable organizations, $5,945.28 for the Bright Ideas Program, which supports innovative projects led by Georgia-certified teachers and $10,000 to the University of North Georgia Foundation for student scholarships at the Cumming campus.

Charitable Organizations Receiving Grants:

• Friendship Christian School, Inc.
• Junior Achievement of Georgia, Inc.
• North Metro Miracle League, Inc.
• American Legion – Post 307

Bright Ideas Program Recipients:

• Alliance Academy for Innovation – Dixie Hamilton
• Kilough Elementary School – Christy Sarratt
• Whitlow Elementary School – Claire Kassalen and Leigh Kidd

"Operation Round Up is a fantastic program that truly makes a difference in our local communities. The small contributions from our members collectively create a significant impact, allowing the Foundation Board of Trustees to support various charitable organizations and educational initiatives. It's always heartwarming to see how these funds help those in need and enrich our community,” states Mandy Love, Director of Marketing.
Every month, around 18,000 Sawnee EMC members round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar. These small, yet impactful donations have allowed the Foundation to contribute over $4.8 million back to local communities since its inception in 2003.

To learn more about the Operation Round Up Program and the Foundation, visit https://sawnee.coop/foundation-round-up or contact Mandy Love, Director of Marketing, at 678-455-1579 or via email at mandy.love@sawnee.coop.

About Sawnee EMC and the Sawnee Foundation 

Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an electric distribution cooperative headquartered in Cumming, Georgia. Sawnee serves electricity to approximately 200,000 accounts in seven (7) counties of greater north Georgia.  The Sawnee Electric Foundation was created in 2003 with the mission of providing charitable donations within the Sawnee communities.  The Foundation exists to enhance the way of life for those in need, with financial assistance to selected charitable organizations. Sawnee always stands ready to meet the needs of its members and strives daily to live up to their motto…

“At Sawnee EMC, We’re More Than Electricity, We’re Service”.

_{This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.}