Investing in Our Communities, Supporting Our Members
Welcome to the Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC) Member Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of members, families, and communities across Baker, Grant, Harney, and Union counties.
Rooted in the cooperative principle of “Concern for Community,” the Foundation oversees and funds critical charitable programs that empower local youth, champion education, and provide a safety net for members in need.
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Key Programs Supported by the Foundation
Member-to-Member Round Up Program
Small change creates a massive ripple effect. By opting in, your monthly electric bill is "rounded up" to the next whole dollar. These spare pennies pool together to fund vital emergency assistance and community-focused projects right here in Eastern Oregon.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Foster a lifelong love of reading from an early age! This program mails free, high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to the homes of children (ages birth to five) each month.
Scholarship Opportunities
We believe in investing in the future leaders of Eastern Oregon. The Foundation proudly offers multiple scholarship categories.
Ways to Give & Support the Foundation
Your generosity keeps our local communities strong. There are several convenient ways to contribute to the OTEC Member Foundation:
Option A: Make a Direct Online Donation (via PayPal)
You can direct your tax-deductible gift to a specific cause:
- General Foundation Fund: Supports various vital community organizations.
- Scholarship Fund: Academic, Trade School, Lineman, or Memorial options.
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library: (If sponsoring a specific child, please include their name and "DPIL" in the notes).
- SHOULD MEMBER TO MEMBER BE AN OPTION?
Option B: Donate Your Capital Credit Checks
Did you know you can turn your OTEC capital credit refunds into community impact? Member-owners can donate all or a portion of their capital credit distributions directly to the Foundation’s youth scholarships, the Imagination Library, or the Round Up program.
How to Donate Capital Credits:
- Fill out the online expression-of-interest form below.
- Print, complete, and mail this additional form (or complete it in person at any OTEC office).
- For questions, call us at 541-523-3616.
Contact & Office Locations
Have questions about the Foundation, want to set up a memorial scholarship, or need assistance donating? Reach out to us!