The Winfield/Jerry Ross Elementary School’s PTO organization received a $2,500 Operation Round Up grant to help replace playground equipment. Pictured are, from left, Jillian Alonzo, Winfield Elementary School principal; Kim Neff, PTO president; and Don Samburg, Operation Round Up director.

Capitalizing on the cooperative’s commitment to the community, Kankakee Valley REMC Operation Round Up participants showed their support through their giving in 2016. Member participation allowed the organization to give over $73,000 in 2016. This is a true testament to our caring members and how a few pennies can make a difference. The following organizations received grants during the final quarter of 2016.

• Psi Iota Xi, Iota Zeta Chapter, located in North Judson, received a grant in the amount of $1,000. This grant will allow up to 200 elementary school children to attend a young artist’s conference. The children will receive learning opportunities in the fields of art, literature, music and various other fields.
• A $1,500 Operation Round Up grant will help Tri-Township Consolidated School Corporation install and purchase a new community sign. This sign will be placed along Highway 421 directly behind Wanatah School and be instrumental in keeping residents involved and informed about community events.
• Safety is a top priority at schools during play and classroom time. Winfield/Jerry Ross Elementary School’s PTO organization is making sure that when students are at play, they are safe. Currently, the playground has two pieces of equipment not suited for the school’s youngest students. The pieces have been taken down and the school is looking to replace them with something more age appropriate. A $2,500 grant will assist the school in moving forward with the replacement of the equipment.