Simply put, SVECares gathers voluntary contributions from co-op members by rounding up their monthly electric bill to the next highest dollar. For example: if your bill is $48.63, SVEC would round it up to $49.00. The additional 37 cents would go to the SVECares fund.

Monthly contributions per member average 50 cents, for a yearly average donation of $6 per members. It’s small change but if all SVEC members join, we could “round up” about $180,000 a year to help our neighbors in need.

SVECares may be used for local projects such as fire fighting equipment for volunteer fire departments; life-saving equipment for ambulance or rescue squads; hospice programs; youth programs; food shelves; clothing, shelter and medical services following an accident or storm; and all types of individual needs. All of the funds go directly back into our communities. Donations are not limited to these categories. SVECares funds may not be used for political purposes or to pay electric or gas bills.

Five community residents—all members of the co-op — have been appointed to the SVECares board by the SVEC board of directors to:

• Evaluate requests for SVECares

• Determine how the money will be used

Citizens appointed to the SVECares board have a strong concern for their community and possess a desire to see that help is provided where it will do the most good. SVECares board members volunteer their time and receive no pay or compensation for serving on the board.

SVEC members can opt out of the voluntary SVECares program at any time. Just enclose a note in your electric bill, call your local service center for assistance or submit this form to opt out.