Read how rounded-up pennies are making a difference in your community.
On October 10, Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety program awarded $20,492 in grants supporting community safety projects proposed by 6 local nonprofit organizations.
Flathead County Search and Rescue (FCSAR) sought $4,991.34 to purchase a side-scan/radar unit for the unit’s lake rescue boat. Anthony Palmiotti presented on behalf of FCSAR. He discussed the safety risks presented to would-be rescuers when engaging in nighttime search and rescue operations. “When you’re looking for a black jet ski on a black lake under a new moon, you’re not looking at much without radar,” Palmiotti shared with the Roundup for Safety Board of Directors. “This unit would replace our 12-year-old system. Importantly, it offers a second monitor for dedicated searcher use. Boat drivers should be driving boats, not looking at monitors, for everyone’s safety.”
The Roundup for Safety Board granted FCSAR’s request and thanked them for their dedicated service to safety.
October grantees also include:
- Steps of Justice – safety stall mats – $2,000
- Senior Mobile Home Repair – repairs – $5,000
- Senior Citizens of Lincoln County – kitchen fire suppression system – $2,000
- Kootenai Winter Sports – snowmobile – $5,000
- North Valley Food Bank – AED – $1,500
Roundup for Safety funding comes from participating Flathead Electric Cooperatives members who allow their monthly electric bills to be rounded up to the nearest dollar. The program costs each member about $6 per year and has provided over $5 million in funding since 1997.
Roundup for Safety is a voluntary program for Co-op members who round up their electric bills to the next dollar. This money is managed by an independent board and goes into a fund for community safety projects. If your nonprofit is interested in applying for community safety funds, visit our Roundup for Safety page or call the Roundup for Safety Board Liaison:
Courtney Stone
Communications & Marketing Supervisor