Marion, OH- A $10,000 grant from Mid-Ohio Energy Cooperative is helping the Marion Palace Theatre weather some operating setbacks resulting from COVID-19 cancellations.

On Wednesday, Mid-Ohio Energy presented Marion Palace Theatre director Bev Ford with a check as part of the “Sharing Success” community grant program. The funds will be used to support the Palace’s operating budget. As the Palace has been forced to cancel many events throughout the year on account of the coronavirus pandemic, it has relied on the community for support. 

“We saw the Palace being creative in raising funds and adapting events as a result of COVID-19, and recognized an opportunity to help,” said Mid-Ohio Energy President & CEO John Metcalf. “This fit perfectly with our mission to support local communities.” 

As a host of local entertainment and art frequented by the co-op’s membership, the Marion Palace Theatre was a logical choice for the grant. “It’s an important fixture for our members and the community,” said Metcalf. “In attending events at the Palace, I always encounter a number of co-op members, and they’re from areas all across our ten-county territory, not just Marion county.”

“Community partners like Mid-Ohio Energy have given us hope through the pandemic and are encouraging us through these difficult days,” says Ford.

The grant from Mid-Ohio Energy was partially funded by CoBank, a national cooperative bank providing financial services to the cooperative. Through their 'Sharing Success' program, CoBank partners with their customers to match contributions to charitable organizations and causes they care about most.