(CUMMING, GA) The Sawnee Electric Foundation (Foundation) is proud to announce a monumental milestone in its history: surpassing $5 million in grants awarded to local organizations and community initiatives. Cooperatives operate under a set of core principles, and one of them is “Concern for Community.” The Foundation is Sawnee EMC’s community arm and supports this principle. Since its inception, in 2003, the Foundation has been dedicated to making a tangible difference across its seven (7) county service area.
In addition to reaching this remarkable milestone, the Foundation is also celebrating its impactful giving in the 2nd quarter of 2025. During this period, Cherokee County Schools received $2,662.14 to fund deficits for two (2) schools served by Sawnee EMC and the Gwinnett Tech Foundation received $10,000 to be used for scholarships for students enrolled at the Alpharetta campus, also served by Sawnee. Additionally, the Foundation Board of Trustees approved $59,260 to deserving local organizations that address needs in local communities, as shown below.
- Operation Appreciation, Inc.
- Act Together Ministries
- Teacher Reuse Exchange, Inc.
- Thrive Together: A Center for Family Solutions, Inc.
- MUST Ministries, Inc.
- Bald Ridge Lodge, Inc.
- Johns Creek Community Arts Center
- Bethany Place, Inc.
- Forsyth County Humane Society, Inc.
- Hall-Dawson CASA Program, Inc.
- Child Advocates of Forsyth County, Inc.
- KARE for Kids, Inc.
- Families of Children Under Stress, Inc.
The funds for these grants are made possible by the generous participation of Sawnee EMC members in the Operation Round Up program. Through this initiative, Sawnee members voluntarily round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the additional funds contributing directly to the Foundation. This collective action embodies the spirit of community and illustrates the power of small contributions can achieve a significant impact.
"We are proud to have reached the $5 million mark in grants awarded,” said Mandy Love, Sawnee EMC Director of Marketing. “This milestone is not just a reflection of the Foundation's dedication but also a testament to the generosity and goodwill of our members. It is their commitment to our Operation Round Up program that enables this good work in the community,” she further stated.
Questions about this program or the Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation can be found online at www.sawnee.coop/round_up or directed to Mandy Love, Director of Marketing for Sawnee EMC at 678-455-1579 or via email at mandy.love@sawnee.coop.
About Sawnee EMC and the Sawnee Electric Foundation
Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation is an electric distribution cooperative headquartered in Cumming, Georgia. Sawnee serves electricity to approximately 202,000 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/owners. SEMC 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.