Members of Southern Pioneer Electric’s Helping Us Give to Society (HUGS) team presented $10,000 in grants to Sublette Elementary School to assist with its Playground For All initiative, which includes the construction of an ADA-compliant playground for the community. Grants are provided by both the Southern Pioneer Electric HUGS program and matching funds from CoBank’s Sharing Success program. The playground will include ADA-accessible equipment — a modified merry-go-round and a sensory board.

“We want to increase the accessibility of playground activities for all students,” said Rachel Lee, Sublette Elementary Principal. “Currently, there is no ADA-compliant playground equipment in our school or the community, outside of one accessible swing. This project addresses a critical gap by providing inclusive opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and emotional development.”

The school has been working to secure around $15,000 for the project through grants and local fundraising, and will move to ordering and implementing the equipment once funds are secured. It will serve approximately 200 students during the school day and participants in the school’s after-school program.

“The playground will be available to students during that day and to the public outside of school hours, expanding its impact across the Sublette community and surrounding rural area,” said Lee. “Feedback from teachers, staff and families will be used to evaluate the impact of the project within our community. Community members can direct that back to the school.”

Southern Pioneer’s HUGS team expressed support for the project, appreciating its commitment not only to the students but also to the Sublette community.

The Southern Pioneer Electric Helping Us Give to Society (H.U.G.S.) program awarded on July 14 a $6,000 grant to the Liberal High School Athletics and Activities Program to purchase new camera equipment.

The funding will be used to purchase a new camera, lens, lighting setup, and other accessories. The grant is expected to help improve the quality of photos, videos, and social media content, as well as the overall exposure of the students and their activities and achievements.

“Our current equipment is outdated and personally owned,” said Chad Friess, Athletic and Activities Director for Liberal High School. “Purchasing department-owned equipment will ensure consistent, high-quality coverage for students now and in the future.”

Friess said the new equipment will support all students at Liberal High School who participate in athletics, fine arts, academic activities, and other school programs.

“The H.U.G.S. program exists to support our communities and help them grow,” said Ruby Terrazas, H.U.G.S. team member. “We look forward to seeing what the students at Liberal High School produce with this new equipment.

To be considered for a H.U.G.S. grant, an organization must demonstrate need in one of the focus areas listed within the program’s guidelines. Focus areas include: human needs, education, culture and art, civic and environment. Organizations interested in applying for H.U.G.S. grants must meet the outlined criteria found in the program’s guidelines. The program’s guidelines and application can be found on Southern Pioneer Electric’s website (www.southerpioneer.net).