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Foundation Board Reflects on Roundup

What could be more rewarding than helping others in need?" Perhaps it would be holding a seat on the Tri-County EMC Foundation Board. At least that’s what the nine community-driven individuals who volunteer on the Foundation Board say.

The Foundation Board, appointed by the Tri-County EMC Board, give their time to consider each Operation Roundup application for funding. Whether it’s aiding a local student or assisting victims of house fires, the Foundation responds to local needs. "It’s very rewarding to be in a position of improving other people’s lives and services across the Tri-County area," notes Jones County’s Dottie Walker, chairman of the Tri-County EMC Foundation. A sample of the Foundation’s contribution to a service was providing assistance to the Gray Volunteer Fire Department for a thermal imaging camera to locate fires in their early stages to prevent loss of life.

"Our family gives each month to Operation Round Up," says long-time Foundation Director Rev. Ron McClung, "I feel as though I have contributed a small part when I see various needs met through this means."

"If left to the individual Tri- County Member, I believe each person is willing to help those that are less fortunate than themselves," says Foundation Secretary/Treasurer James Findley of Baldwin County. "Unfortunately, our wishes are not always carried out because we put it off and say ‘we’ll do it tomorrow.’ We should recognize that in a fraction of a moment, any one of us could very easily swap places and be in a position of need."

Board member Dr. Dan Caldwell of Baldwin County shares his thoughts. "It has made me more aware of the vastness of the needs of our area—medical, housing replacements and repairs, equipment and more. Having seen first hand the needs of our community has made me more thankful for my life’s state. The impact of seriously considering a request is truly powerful, as compared to just reading in a local paper of a need."

"I really don’t believe that the contributors of Project Round Up have any idea how much a few pennies here and there can add up to," says Putnam County advocate and Foundation Vice Chairman Roddie Anne Blackwell. "I have had the opportunity to see projects and lives changed just because someone was there to help them. I think that the members of Tri-County EMC can be proud that they made a difference in someone’s life that needed some help."

"It only takes one memory to bring back the idea that we have made such a difference in the lives of so many people," concludes Findley, "And, we did it with so little money contributed individually." <<