For 30 years, the La Plata Electric Association (LPEA) Round Up Foundation has demonstrated the power of small acts of generosity. Since its founding in 1996, thousands of LPEA members have voluntarily rounded up their monthly electric bills, creating a lasting source of support for local nonprofits and community organizations across Southwest Colorado.
As the Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary, it is also celebrating another milestone. During the first half of 2026, LPEA invested $59,068 in local nonprofits through two community investment programs. The Round Up Foundation awarded $30,550 in member-funded Round Up Grants to 14 nonprofit organizations, while an additional $28,518 in Educational Grants—funded through unclaimed capital credits—supported 13 organizations advancing educational opportunities across the region.
"The Round Up Foundation is a reflection of what makes a cooperative different," said Carrie Hugus, LPEA Community Outreach Specialist. "For 30 years, our members have chosen to invest in their neighbors by donating just a few cents each month. Those small contributions have grown into more than $2.5 million in community support, proving that when a community comes together, even the smallest gifts can make an extraordinary impact."
2026 Mid-Year Impact
- $30,550 awarded through Round Up Grants to 14 nonprofit organizations
- $28,518 awarded through Educational Grants to 13 nonprofit organizations
- $59,068 invested in 27 local nonprofit organizations
Since January, member contributions have generated more than $60,000 through monthly bill round-ups. Every dollar remains local, supporting organizations that improve the quality of life throughout LPEA's service territory.
The Round Up Foundation administers two distinct grant programs. Round Up Grants are funded through voluntary member contributions, while Educational Grants are funded separately through LPEA's unclaimed capital credits. Together, these programs strengthen education, community services, and quality of life throughout Southwest Colorado.
Celebrating 30 Years: The $30 for 30 Years Campaign
To commemorate the Foundation's 30th anniversary, LPEA has launched its $30 for 30 Years campaign, inviting members to celebrate three decades of local giving by making a one-time $30 donation or enrolling in Round Up Plus, which allows members to contribute an additional monthly amount beyond rounding up their electric bill.
Today, more than 16,400 members participate in the Round Up program, making it one of the region's most successful member-supported charitable giving programs. Whether supporting volunteer fire districts, food banks, arts organizations, or youth programs, every contribution stays in La Plata and Archuleta counties, helping strengthen the communities LPEA members call home.
"Every month our members demonstrate what it means to be part of a cooperative," Hugus said. "Together, we've built something that has improved lives for 30 years, and we're excited to continue that legacy for generations to come."
Since its inception, the LPEA Round Up Foundation has awarded more than $2.5 million to local nonprofit organizations, reinforcing LPEA's commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities.
Members can join the Round Up program, enroll in Round Up Plus, or participate in the $30 for 30 Years campaign by visiting lpea.coop/round-your-lpea-bill.
Eligible nonprofit organizations serving La Plata and Archuleta counties may apply for grants of up to $3,000 through the Foundation's online application. Applications are reviewed monthly by the LPEA Round Up Foundation Board of Directors. Learn more at lpea.coop/round-your-lpea-bill.