Fredericksburg, Va. — Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) was recently celebrated for its commitment to youth empowerment, receiving the 2024 Thomas G. Faulkner, Jr. Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Fredericksburg. The award, presented at the Empowering Potential Business Breakfast on Oct. 10, highlights REC’s long-term dedication to fostering opportunities for local youth.

Named for the founder of the Fredericksburg Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter, the Thomas G. Faulkner, Jr. Award is bestowed annually to an organization demonstrating outstanding and sustained contributions to the community.

“Over the years, REC has increased their sponsorships, provided us with The Power of Change grant and their employees always show up with enthusiasm to help local youth,” said Sandra Erickson, Executive Director. “We are proud to recognize REC with our most prestigious award with grateful acknowledgement of their generous contributions.”

REC’s The Power of Change allows members to round up their electric bills each month. The funds are then donated to local nonprofits such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. (To learn more or enroll, visit thepowerofchange.org.)

The Power of Change program has become a critical funding source for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and REC employees consistently support the organization’s flagship events like Bowl for Kids’ Sake and Golf for Kids’ Sake.

REC’s Managing Director of Communications and Public Relations, Casey Hollins, expressed the Cooperative’s deep commitment to the cause: “At REC, being a cooperative means more than delivering reliable power – it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters allows us to support local youth in impactful ways, and we are excited to continue this mission for years to come.”

Serving more than 180,000 connections across 22 Virginia counties, REC is a pillar in its communities, with over 18,000 miles of power lines extending from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. For more information on REC’s initiatives, visit www.myrec.coop and follow REC on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.