A Special Week

A group of OEC employees and board members volunteer at 2024 Special Olympics Summer Games

Volunteers from 23 Oklahoma electric co-ops came together in Stillwater in May to assist with the Special Olympics Summer Games. Five OEC representatives attended among the record 150 co-op volunteers in Stillwater.

Community Outreach Associate Carrie Koesler, Copywriter and Media Specialist Erin McKnight, Service Technician Shane Dominey, District 3 Trustee Debbie Frazier and District 7 Trustee Danny Watters joined other co-op employees and family members as they assisted with track and field events.

Four thousand athletes from across the state participated in the Summer Games. During the three-day event, athletes competed in track and field, bocce, bowling, golf, horseshoes, powerlifting, basketball and softball.

"This was my first Special Olympics as a co-op employee," Koesler said. "Sharing the joy with these athletes and having the opportunity to celebrate with them has changed me for the better."

Dominey echoed her comments. "It was a humbling experience to watch the athletes compete! I would recommend that everyone volunteer if they get the chance."

In addition to OEC's volunteers, the OEC Foundation, Inc. via the Operation Round Up® program donates funds to area Special Olympics teams each year. That funding is made possible by members who round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar.

"I am so proud of these young people and their tenacity to overcome their obstacles and win," said McKnight. "The high fives were endless, and the smiles and hugs were priceless. I will treasure each minute."