When Palmetto Electric Cooperative in South Carolina first launched Operation Round Up in 1989, they likely never imagined the lasting impact it would have. What began as a simple way for members to round their bills up to the next whole dollar to support local charities has since grown into a cornerstone initiative adopted by nearly 400 electric co-ops nationwide.

Thirty years later, CHELCO introduced its own Operation Round Up program, officially launching in 2019. Since then, nearly 30,000 members have chosen to participate, helping local nonprofits make a real difference in our communities.

Thanks to this generosity, we are proud to share that CHELCO’s Operation Round Up has now provided more than $500,000 in funding through over 200 grants to nonprofits across our service area.

These grants have supported a wide range of causes, including:
• Caring and Sharing, which offers community support programs.
• Food for Thought Outreach, providing meals to children and families.
• Boys & Girls Clubs, supporting local students with after-school and summer programs.
• E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center, advancing environmental education.
• Healing Tools for Warriors, serving our veterans.
• And many more local organizations making an impact every day.

This milestone would not be possible without the generosity of our participating members who choose to round up their bills each month in support of worthy causes.

If you manage a nonprofit and are interested in applying for a grant, or if you’re a member who would like to join in supporting the program, visit CHELCO.com/operation-round-up.