Operation Round Up: Small change, big impact

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Posted on May 17 2026 in Steuben County REMC
Operation Round Up logo

The spare change from Steuben County REMC members’ electric bills continues to make a big difference across the community. Through the cooperative’s Operation Round Up program, $43,000 was recently awarded to 14 local organizations and community projects, helping support programs that strengthen and improve life throughout Steuben County.

Operation Round Up allows members to voluntarily round their monthly electric bill up to the next dollar. The average donation is about 50 cents per month, or roughly $6 per year, with a maximum of $11.88 annually. While the individual amount is small, when thousands of members participate, the impact adds up quickly.

The program is overseen by a volunteer board that reviews applications and distributes funds quarterly to local nonprofit organizations. Since its launch in June 2004, Operation Round Up has provided more than $880,000 to over 575 community projects across Steuben County.

Today, approximately 70% of Steuben County REMC members participate in the program. Their contributions support nonprofit organizations that enhance the quality of life, promote community development, and provide important services to local residents.

Recent Operation Round Up grant recipients

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana — Youth Mentoring in Steuben County

Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County— Boys & Girls Club programs in Steuben County 

BSA- Anthony Wayne Area Council, Inc. — Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rescue Program, LED Conversion, and Fort Cooper Stockade Repairs

Community Harvest Food Bank of NE IN, Inc. — Steuben County Farm Wagon

Elijah Haven Crisis Intervention Center — Abuse Intervention Program

Haven Hills Therapy Center — Haven Hills Therapy Center’s Creation Cabin Interior

Henry Park Elementary PTO Inc. — Hendry Park PTO Field Trip Sponsorship Program – Helping Every Student Explore Beyond the Classroom

Hoosiers Feeding the Hungry — Meat4Forks: Steuben County

Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana — JA K-12 In-School Programming 2025-26

McMillen Health — Preventive Health Education for Steuben County

Salem Center Volunteer Fire Department — Thermal Imager and water valve

Special Olympics Indiana – Steuben County — Strikes for All: Expanding Bowling Opportunities in Steuben County

Steuben County Community Foundation, Inc. — Steuben County Early Childhood coalition: Seed Funding

Well Child Clinic Land of Lakes Family Health Services — Financial Medical Assistance Program

Applying for funding

Local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations may apply for Operation Round Up grants. Application deadlines are June 26, Sept. 25, and Dec. 25. Applications are available at steubenfoundation.org.

Want to participate?

Members who would like to enroll in Operation Round Up can call 260-665-3563. Additional information is available at remcsteuben.com/operation-round-up.

Volunteer leadership

Steuben County REMC thanks the 2025 Operation Round Up volunteer board for their service and dedication to the community:

  • Craig Ralston, president
  • Cheryl Reed, vice president
  • Jessica Brodock
  • Nicole Lovett
  • Two Steuben County REMC employees

Their leadership helps ensure that Operation Round Up continues to support organizations making a positive difference in our local communities.