Wheatland Rural Electric Association supports community with partnerships
The Platte County Chamber of Commerce in Wyoming recently celebrated Wheatland Rural Electric Association’s (WREA) commitment to the area with their Community Builder of the Year award. Over the past 12 months, WREA has found a number of ways to partner with other local businesses to increase the effect of their contributions.
Jaimie Wardell and Raegan Harnish explain their science fair project to WREA General Manager Donald Smith
WREA encourages kids’ interest in science by sponsoring a team in the local, regional, and state science fair competitions for middle school students. Their eighth grade team won 1st place at all three competitions. Continuing its efforts to promote and encourage science, WREA uses one of its bucket trucks to help with the eighth grade science class egg drop contest. Last year, in support of West Elementary School’s “Science Day,” WREA welcomed a visit from Power and sponsored a presentation of “The Story Behind the Switch.”
The organization also has a strong educational program about electrical safety for students of all ages at the schools in their service area, reaching about 1,500 people every year. WREA employees present classes about electricity and the grid as guest instructors at local schools. In addition to these contributions, WREA also provides annual scholarships to high school graduates.
Many community groups and organizations benefit from their sponsorships and involvement by employees; the Platte County Fair, 4-H clubs, local church groups, Lions Club, Platte County Legacy Home, and the Special Olympics.
WREA’s involvement in these enterprises goes beyond simple volunteering or donations. Their presence helps raise awareness for a number of local and national charitable efforts – the ALS Association, Marge Cares Foundation, Moose Lodge, and Platte County Memorial Hospital.
This year marked two special events for WREA – the inaugural Community Career Fair and Dancing with the Stars Platte County Style. The career fair drew over 300 students and adults from around Platte County. At Dancing with the Stars, WREA Office Manager Rhonda Apodaca earned the prestigious title of “Best Tumbler” for her grace and style during pre-show practices.
The Platte County Chamber of Commerce honored WREA for these and many other contributions to the community with their Community Builder of the Year award. We would like to extend our congratulations to the member-owners in this area for their ongoing commitment to improving the lives of their friends, neighbors and co-workers.