PROGRAM INFORMATION
At Ozark Electric, we believe that when neighbors come together, even the smallest actions can make a significant impact. We're proud to introduce the Ozark Electric Community Foundation (OECF), a non-profit organization funded by members through small, voluntary bill round ups, turning extra change from everyday bills into opportunities for good. As a member-owned cooperative, our purpose extends far beyond providing safe and reliable power; we exist to serve others and improve quality of life throughout our service area. This grant program will benefit local non-profits, civic organizations, local teachers, and provide additional funds for our college/trade school scholarship program. Together, we can create stronger communities... one penny at a time. Over half of the electric cooperatives in Missouri participate in a round up or community giving program. These programs have generated more than $42 million for non-profits, organizations, teachers, and individuals in need.
Beginning with the September 2026 billing cycle, Ozark Electric members will be automatically enrolled in this round up program. In the program, electric bills are rounded to the nearest dollar, with the extra change placed into the Ozark Electric Community Foundation fund. For example, if your monthly bill is $87.43, your bill will be an even $88.00 with the extra $0.57 going towards various goodwill causes within the communities that OEC serves. On average, a member will contribute just $6.00 PER YEAR. Members will have the option to give more through a one-time or recurring donation or you may easily opt-out of the program by submitting the Opt-Out Form at the bottom of this page or by reaching out to our Member Services team (see "opt-out" section below).
The Ozark Electric Community Foundation (OECF) will be governed by a separate Community Foundation Board of Trustees made up of nine (9) volunteers, one from each of the nine (9) districts we serve. OECF Board of Trustees members must be an Ozark Electric member. Organizations seeking assistance through the OECF program will need to fill out an application to be reviewed by the OECF Board of Trustees. This committee decides how the money is disbursed, based upon need, and 100% of your donations will be used to help others.
We can't wait to share all of the amazing individuals and organizations that will benefit from this incredible program!
GUIDELINES & APPLICATIONS
COMING SOON! A link to available programs funded through the OECF can be found below. Each page includes specific program guidelines and instructions.
OPT-OUT
To opt-out of the round-up program, please use the Opt-Out Form at the bottom of this page. You can also CLICK HERE to e-mail the Member Services team. Please provide your first and last name/business name and account #.
QUESTIONS?
Visit the FAQ section at the bottom of the page!
PROGRAM GUIDELINES & APPLICATIONS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do other cooperatives participate in this program?
Yes! Over half of Missouri's electric cooperatives, and hundreds across the country, participate in a round-up program. These programs have generated over $42 million for non-profits, civic organizatons, teachers, students, and individuals in need.
Are members automatically enrolled?
Yes, Ozark Electric members were automatically enrolled in this program beginning with the September 2026 billing cycle.
Why did Ozark Electric choose to automatically enroll all members?
After much consideration, the Board of Directors chose this method based upon information received from other cooperatives that have implemented a similar program. We truly believe the majority of our members will find this program to be worthwhile and choose to continue participating. Members may opt-out of the program at any time.
I have multiple accounts. Will every bill be rounded up?
Only the primary/main account will be automatically opted-in. The member may choose to opt-in other accounts.
Who decides how the money is distributed?
A Community Foundation Board of Trustees will oversee the program and review all applications to ensure funds are used responsibly and align with the Foundation's mission. The OECF Board of Trustees is made up of nine (9) members, one from each district within our service area.
Does Ozark Electric keep any of the funds?
No! Funds stay within the Foundation. A small amount (less than 1%) may be used for administrative costs, but those costs are kept minimal so the majority goes directly back into the communities we serve.
How do I know the funds are used appropriately?
The Board of Trustees follows established bylaws and reviews each request carefully to ensure funds are used reponsibly and for intended purposes. In addition, the Foundation will be reviewed during OEC's annual audit.
Can I donate more?
Absolutely! Members can choose to make additional one-time or recurring donations.
How can I opt-out of this program?
Members may opt-out at any time by submitting the Opt-Out Form at the bottom of this page, by e-mailing the Member Services team at memberservices@ozarkelectric.com, or by calling one of our Billing Services Representatives at 417.466.2144.
Can I choose to opt back into the program?
Yes! Members can re-enroll at any time through SmartHub or by speaking with a Billing Services Representative at 417.466.2144.
Is the extra change considered a donation or a fee?
It is a voluntary donation, not a fee. Members can choose to participate or op-out at any time.
Can I see how much I've donated?
Yes, members can view their contribution history in SmartHub.
Can individual members/families apply for assistance?
Yes, OEC members can apply for support through the Foundation. Support may include emergency financial help and medical-related needs.