As depicted in the word cloud, these are just some of the programs the OREMC Foundation has awarded grants to in just the past year. Some will tear your heart out, while others want to make you jump for joy, but all of the programs that have been supported by the 90+ grants totaling more than $300,000 since the OREMC Foundation was launched two years ago underscore the idea that “it takes a village.” The heart and soul of the people behind these initiatives found across the OREMC service area is staggering. And for some, it is a way to give back to those that helped them, and pay it forward to those who now find themselves in need.

“The Foundation has opened our eyes to things I never thought of. that are issues people are facing,” notes OREMC Foundation President Ruby Ann Sawyer. “One that really got to me was an addiction recovery center. They had gone down to the penny in demonstrating what they needed to help their residents in their grant request. When they got their award and were presented with the check, they were so excited to be able to meet another need. And just the little bit we were able to give can make a big impact. I say little bit, because I know it costs so much for the organizations we have supported to reach the people in need and provide the services they do. At least we are helping in some way.”

And the needs are great—particularly in the areas of foster care and food insecurity across all counties OREMC serves. Clothes and shoes for children is another common initiative—giving them the basics so they can focus on school and stay off the streets and away from drugs. Several mentoring programs to prevent youth from going down the wrong path, and addition recovery centers, as mentioned above, have also been grant recipients.

On the bright side are the education initiatives the OREMC Foundation has supported. Arts education programs work to foster singing, instrumental and performing arts in children—and adults—of all ages. These programs work to promote inclusivity, community and family at minimal costs to maximize participation. Then there are the FFA and 4-H programs that give children hands on learning through agricultural education. Reading programs help foster early childhood literacy. And camp/workshop activities that open up a world of possibilities, teach new skills or enhance understanding of technology in our increasingly digital world are very rewarding.

The OREMC Foundation was formed as a community development initiative to support qualified organizations in the six Georgia and two Florida counties OREMC serves. Currently the Foundation is funded by unclaimed capital credits. If these funds weren’t reinvested into our local communities, they would have to be returned to the State of Georgia. Awarding grants to organizations through the Foundation is a much better use of those funds and ensures direct investment in our OREMC communities.

To learn more about the OREMC Foundation visit oremc.com/foundation.