Operation Round Up: A year-round commitment

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Posted on Feb 07 2026 in Kankakee Valley REMC
Caring Place
The Caring Place Board President Eric Nicholson, KV REMC Director of Marketing and Communications Amanda Steeb, The Caring Place CEO Jessica Luth, and Communications Director Erin Blumenthal.

At Kankakee Valley REMC, giving isn’t just seasonal – it’s a year-round commitment. In fact, more than 70% of our membership gives back each month through the Operation Round Up program. Thanks to their generosity, the program awarded $26,000 to local non-profits in the final quarter of 2025, supporting causes that help residents of our community. These organizations included the following:

Porter County Ag Society received a $1,000 grant to support a family attraction at the Porter County Fairgrounds — the Kids Pedal Town and Agricultural Play Center.

LifeWise Academy North Judson-San Pierre and LifeWise East Porter County School Corporation each received a $1,000 grant for the purchase of classroom materials. LifeWise provides Bible education to public school students during school hours.

The Caring Place, located in Valparaiso, received $5,500 to purchase mattresses and bedding for its emergency shelter. The Caring Place provides inclusive service, shelter and ongoing support for people experiencing domestic violence.

St. Thomas Aquinas Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, located in Knox, received $1,500 to support its mission of assisting the needy with food.

Bikes for Kids of Northwest Indiana received an $3,000 grant to purchase 120 new bicycles and helmets for second-grade children living at or below the poverty line. These bicycles will be distributed to children living in Starke County later this spring.

MAKS (Making a Kid Smile) received an $8,000 grant to purchase beds and bedding, ensuring vulnerable children have a safe, clean place to sleep while awaiting permanent placement through foster care or family reunification. Based in Northwest Indiana, MAKS supports children immediately after removal and throughout their placement journey by providing personal care items and safe sleep resources.

Knox Middle School Committee of Excellence PTO received a commitment of $5,000 to support the purchase of new playground equipment for the middle school. This new space will provide students with fun activities during the school day.