Basin Electric partners with members to support SPURS Therapeutic Riding Center

Basin Electric partnered with Class C member Northern Electric Cooperative and Class A member East River Electric to support a worthy cause. On June 7, Northern Electric, based in Bath, South Dakota, presented SPURS Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center in Aberdeen, South Dakota, with a $2,000 donation to help cover the costs of their Special Olympics Equestrian event in August.

Char Hager, General Manager/CEO at Northern Electric, along with Ben Dunsmoor, Northern Electric communications director, presented the check in person. Dunsmoor says, "SPURS is very appreciative of the donation and said it will nearly cover all costs this year."

SPURS Riding Center provides opportunities for growth through horse-related activities for individuals with special needs, such as cerebral palsy, developmental delays, sensory integration disorder, learning disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, visual impairment, mental health issues, and behavioral challenges. They strive to boost self-esteem and confidence, improve coordination and mobility, and promote a better attitude. 

Each year at Basin Electric, one-third of the Charitable Giving budget is allocated for member matching donations. Jennifer Holen is the charitable giving coordinator at Basin Electric. "Local members decide which organizations to donate to. We lean on them for a good fit and match their donation," she says. "Basin Electric is proud to support our members and what they think is important in their community."