Great Bend, Kan.–Wheatland Electric Cooperative, Inc. (WEC) announced today that the Pilot Club of Great Bend has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the WEC Sharing Success Fund.

This grant will be used to help underwrite an upcoming autism workshop designed to educate teachers and families about available support and services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Scheduled for October 4, the workshop titled “Making a Difference: Autism Across the Lifespan” helps raise awareness about crucial resources for those caring for and interacting with individuals on the autism spectrum as well as those diagnosed with ASD. The workshop is designed for those seeking guidance in navigating the challenges and opportunities associated with ASD. It will feature expert speakers and facilitators specializing in autism education and support services.

The Pilot Club of Great Bend is a local organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in their community. With a focus on encouraging brain safety and health, the Pilot Club strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who care for others.

The Scott Community Foundation began formally accepting applications for grants from the WEC Sharing Success Fund from community-based organizations on December 1, 2012. Since then, the application process has been moved internally and is currently handled directly by WEC. This year, WEC and CoBank have once again each contributed $10,000 to the fund. The program will continue to run until the funds are exhausted. Since 2012, WEC’s Sharing Success Fund has made $165,000 available to community-based organizations and projects across their service territory.

Community based organizations interested in receiving funding from the WEC Sharing Success Fund can apply online. Questions should be referred to Alli Conine, Director of Member Services & Corporate Communications, at 620-874-4563 or aconine@weci.net.