Pedernales Electric Cooperative continues to brighten the Texas Hill Country with grants that help support nonprofits in and around the co-op’s service territory.
In June, PEC awarded more than $33,000 to seven nonprofits, funded by PEC’s Power of Change Program. These grants will be used toward projects that support the nonprofits in their missions to serve our communities.
PEC Community Grants are made possible through the generosity of members enrolled in the cooperative’s Power of Change Program. Through the program, members can round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar for charity. Last fall, PEC expanded the Power of Change Program, inviting anyone to make a one-time donation via PayPal or Venmo.
“We are rooted in community and together, with our members, we embrace that giving back is part of our cooperative difference,” said Celeste Mikeska, PEC community relations manager. “None of this would be possible without the support of our members and programs like PEC’s Power of Change. We are so grateful to our members and proud to help lift area nonprofits in their important efforts to improve our communities.”
Since 2016, the program has contributed more than $363,000 in grants to 87 nonprofits. The spring 2023 PEC Community Grant recipients are:
• Wimberley Adoption Group (WAG) received a $5,000 grant to help upgrade electric service at the dog refuge in Driftwood, TX and to purchase and install a backup generator. WAG’s mission is to aid abandoned, unclaimed, surrendered, and shelter dogs in and around the Wimberley area and nearby Central Texas communities.
• Legacy Farmstead, in Boerne will use its $5,000 grant to fund a critical water pump house upgrade. The nonprofit aids veterans, first responders, and their families who are battling Post Traumatic Stress Disorder with rescue horses and farm-steading activities in a retreat-like Hill Country setting.
• A 5,000 grant to the Wimberley Institute of Cultures will help fund a rainwater catchment system, as well as solar lighting for pathway safety and building security. The nonprofit recognizes and preserves the archeological, historical, and cultural resources of the Wimberley Valley. It also provides educational programs and social activities to all community members.
• Ferallife Guards in Leander received a $5,000 grant to fund a video and Wi-Fienabled monitoring stations. The nonprofit is committed to improving the lives of feral cats through technology, innovation, and compassion.
• Friends of Blanco State Park will use its grant of $4,500 to fund solar power for the Wildlife Viewing Area building. The power generated by the solar collection system will be used to add a watering feature, using a rainwater collection system, and will also power two fans in the building. The Friends help to secure funding and offer substantial volunteer support for Blanco State Park.
• Opportunities for Williamson & Burnet Counties received a $5,000 grant to fund a new energ y-efficient air conditioning unit for the new Meals on Wheels Senior Center in Marble Falls. The nonprofit partners with area organizations to provide education, nutrition, and community support to children, families, and seniors in need and to help them achieve and maintain independence.
• Hill Country Senior Center will use a $3,900 grant to fund a new automatic door feature for disabled seniors in the community. The Hill Country Senior Center provides an inclusive community that gathers to enjoy delicious meals, friends, and fellowship.
Learn more at pec.
coop/change.
