2023 Touchstone Energy Community Award Winner Announced
McLeod Cooperative Power is honored to award its 2023 Touchstone Energy Community Award to the United Way of McLeod County. This annual award recognizes a local non-profit or community group that had a positive impact within our service territory during the past year.
United Way of McLeod County is being recognized for its youth Scholarship Program. This initiative provides financial assistance to deserving young individuals who are unable to afford various educational and extracurricular activities. These activities have included sports leagues, art classes, music lessons, scouting programs, leadership development workshops, and STEM-related educational programs.
This past year the organization awarded 115 scholarships ensuring that deserving youth in McLeod County can engage in activities that will positively impact their lives. The initiative invests in the transformative power of sports, art, and music to nurture the talents and character of area youth. These diverse experiences enrich their lives and foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
As this year’s award winner, United Way of McLeod County receives a $500 donation from McLeod Co-op Power. Additionally, they will contend for the statewide Touchstone Energy Community Award with the statewide winner receiving an additional donation of $2,000. The statewide award winner will be recognized at the Minnesota Rural Electric Association annual meeting in 2024.
We received a total of 9 nominations for this year’s Touchstone Energy Community Award. We applaud these groups and all the others that are working tirelessly to improve their communities.
The Minnesota Touchstone Energy Cooperatives are part of a national alliance of more than 750 electric cooperatives in 46 states that adhere to the values of integrity, accountability, innovation, and commitment to the community.