It’s a Matter of (Co-op!) Principles – Part 2
For me, this is a time of year for refection, and topping my list of things I’m grateful for is our wonderful community. I know I speak for all Union County Electric Cooperative employees when I say that we have a lot to be thankful for this year. Personally, I am thankful for my family, the Cooperative Board of Directors and the dedicated employees that we have assembled to serve our members.
You may recall that last month, my column touched on the first three Cooperative Principles, so this month, I’d like to finish that thought and tell you about the remaining four principles that guide our Cooperative. The Cooperative Principles are essential to the co-op business model and benefit all members of the co-op.
Autonomy and Independence
The fourth principal, Autonomy and Independence, means that the co-op operates in an autonomous way that is solely directed and guided by its members, reflecting the values and needs of our local community. This means the co-op is not being influenced by leaders or shareholders several states away. Instead, the co-op is led by the local members it serves.
Education and Training
The fifth principle, Education and Training, focuses on enhancing the knowledge of co-op employees and board members, which enables them to contribute to the development of the co-op.
By investing in continuous learning for our employees and board members, our co-op is making a commitment not just to individual professional and personal growth, but to the future of the co-op and the high quality of service our members expect and deserve. It’s a win-win situation.
We also strive to inform our members (that’s you!) and the public about the mission and operations of the co-op. In fact, that’s why you receive this magazine every month, so we can share the latest co-op news and updates, as well as energy efficiency and safety tips.
Further, we work with the local schools to help educate our future community members on how to be safe around electrical equipment, career opportunities in the energy industry and the importance of being involved in the political process, which plays such an important role in our industry.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Cooperation among cooperatives is the sixth principle and fosters the way that co-ops work together to address bigger challenges. While this principle applies to all types of cooperatives, it is especially relevant in the energy industry. In our case, we put this principle in action after major storms and disasters that cause widespread power outages. When this happens, we call on nearby co-ops to come to our aid and assist with restoration efforts––and we of course extend the same help to them when they need us. I can’t think of a better example of cooperation among cooperatives.
In addition, because we are part of the statewide and national electric co-op networks, we can connect and collaborate with other electric co-ops to tackle industry-related challenges, like cybersecurity and an everchanging energy landscape.
Concern for Community
The seventh principle, Concern for Community, is essential to who we are as cooperatives. We serve our community not only by being an essential service, but by helping to power our local economy. Whether through economic development, volunteerism or donations to local causes, we invest in this community because it’s our home too. One of the ways we show our appreciation and give back to our members every year, is with our Member Breakfast, which will be held at the office on November 6th. Stop in for some pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and good conversation.
I think you’ll find that most cooperatives bring good people together to make good things happen in the community. We hope you feel that way about us, your local electric co-op.
On behalf of everyone at Union County Electric Cooperative, we’re thankful for your membership, and we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Until next month, stay safe and God bless.
Quote of the Month:
“United, there is little we cannot do in a host of cooperative ventures. Divided, there is little we can do.” – John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States