Co-Mo Electric is offering a scholarship for local students looking to further their education.
Over 21 years, Co-Mo has given out more than $550,000 in educational aid for students in the cooperative's service area. The period to apply is coming to a close, with May 1 being the application deadline.
The scholarship funding comes from the Co-Mo Cares Trust "Operation Round-Up" program. Members of Co-Mo Electric who choose to participate in the program have their electric bills rounded up each month to the next dollar, with the resulting change going to the trust.
The average member contributes about $6 annually this way, but this effort has been able to collect more than $1.7 million. The funding is also used for local assistance programs and has been in operation since 1997.
Marisa Oehrke, who serves as Co-Mo Electric Cooperative executive administrative assistant and coordinator of the Operation Round Up Program, said the scholarships are an important part in keeping up with values of the electric cooperative realm.
"Part of being a cooperative means having a genuine concern for the community," Oehrke said. "The generosity of our members through programs such as Operation Round Up allows us to do that and make a difference in the lives of young people in our area."
Students must live within Co-Mo Electric's service territory, but they do not have to receive electric service through the company. Students must also plan on attending an accredited technical or academic institution. First-time recipients will be required to attend a financial seminar at Co-Mo Electric's office in Tipton. More guidelines will be attached to the application.
The applications may be picked up at the Co-Mo offices, a local high school counselor's office or by visiting co-mo.coop. The application and all materials may be brought to either of Co-Mo's offices or mailed to Co-Mo Cares Trust Incorporated, Attn: Marisa Oehrke, P.O. Box 220, Tipton, 65081.