Grady EMC Awards Operation Round Up Funds to Local Organizations

Over $58,000 distributed to support families, education, healthcare, and community development in Grady, Thomas, and Decatur counties.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:11pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting a group of people gathered around a table, conceptually representing the collaborative nature of the Operation Round Up program.Grady EMC's Operation Round Up program allows members to pool small donations that make a big difference in their local communities.Bainbridge Today

Grady EMC, a local electric cooperative, has awarded a total of $58,375 to various organizations in Grady, Thomas, and Decatur counties through its Operation Round Up program. The program allows Grady EMC members to round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar, with those small contributions being used to support a wide range of community initiatives.

Why it matters

Operation Round Up is a unique program that demonstrates the cooperative spirit of Grady EMC and its members. By pooling small donations, the cooperative is able to make a significant impact on local organizations and the communities they serve, addressing needs in areas such as family support, education, healthcare, and community development.

The details

The latest round of funding from Operation Round Up has supported organizations like the Bainbridge High School baseball team and Decatur County 4-H. Each application is carefully reviewed by the Operation Round Up Board to ensure the funds are distributed where they can make the greatest difference. Grady EMC is currently accepting applications for the next round of funding, which will be awarded on July 21.

  • Grady EMC is currently accepting applications for the next round of funding through June 30.
  • The Operation Round Up Board will meet again on July 21 to review submissions and award additional grants.

The players

Grady EMC

A local electric cooperative that serves Grady, Thomas, and Decatur counties in Georgia.

John Long

The CEO of Grady EMC.

Bainbridge High School baseball team

One of the local organizations that received funding from Grady EMC's Operation Round Up program.

Decatur County 4-H

One of the local organizations that received funding from Grady EMC's Operation Round Up program.

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What they’re saying

“This program is a great example of what it means to be part of a cooperative. Our members are helping their neighbors in a very real way. Every dollar stays local and goes directly to organizations that are serving people in our communities.”

— John Long, CEO, Grady EMC

“We're thankful for the members who participate in Operation Round Up. Their generosity allows us to continue giving back and supporting the communities we serve.”

— John Long, CEO, Grady EMC

What’s next

Grady EMC is currently accepting applications for the next round of Operation Round Up funding through June 30. The Operation Round Up Board will meet again on July 21 to review submissions and award additional grants.

The takeaway

Grady EMC's Operation Round Up program demonstrates the power of cooperative values and community-driven initiatives. By pooling small donations from its members, the electric cooperative is able to make a meaningful impact on local organizations and address a wide range of needs in the communities it serves.