At Ocala Electric Utility, we believe a thriving community is built when everyone contributes. The C.A.R.E. (Communities Are the Responsibility of Everyone) Program strengthens this mission by supporting local nonprofit organizations that are working to uplift, protect, and inspire Ocala’s residents.

Through financial contributions and meaningful employee involvement, OEU partners with programs and projects that advance public health, safety, education, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and youth development. Each sponsorship reflects our commitment to investing in initiatives that make a lasting difference.

Apply

The C.A.R.E. Program Application is available online year round, and the guidelines define the framework of our C.A.R.E program process.

All submissions are reviewed carefully to ensure alignment with community needs, responsible stewardship of public funds, and avoidance of any real or perceived conflicts of interest.

OEU reviews all sponsorship submissions and provides responses within 10 business days. While we proudly invest in our community, resources are limited, and not all requests can be fulfilled. The program guidelines offer a clear framework for how applications are evaluated and supported.

Strong Applications Will:

• Demonstrate past or planned involvement from OEU employees
• Clearly outline expected community benefits and how outcomes will be measured
• Show collaboration with organizations serving similar populations or offering complementary resources
• Exhibit sustainability beyond OEU’s contribution

To begin the application process, please complete the OEU Sponsorship Form.

Community Sponsorship Investments

• Education and Youth Development
• STEM Learning
• Mentorship Initiatives
• Scholarship Programs
• Arts, Culture, and Humanities
• Environmental, Safety, Health, and Human Services
• Economic Development
• Diversity and Inclusion Programs

Community Sponsorships NOT Funded:

• Individual political campaigns or party-affiliated activities
• Religious groups
• Organizations or activities that discriminate based on age, race, sex, or national origin
• Causes that do not advance community enhancement or a clear public purpose
• Initiatives that do not align with OEU’s corporate mission

Questions?