As we quickly approach the holiday season, I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to you, the member-owners of our electric cooperative. Because of your connectionto JOEMC, together, we are able to make our community a better and brighter place.
I generally use this column to provide updates on new projects and developments or update you on current events in the energy industry so all of our member-owners are “in the know” on cooperative initiatives. However, during this season of giving thanks, I think it’s equally important to let you know what an impact you have on our co-op and the greater community—likely in ways you may not even realize.
As a part of the cooperative business model, one of our core principles is “concern for community.” While our priority is maintaining safe, reliable, and affordable energy, we also view the co-op as a catalyst for good in our communities. We continually partner with the various non-profit organizations in the area whose missions are similar to ours—to make our community a better place to live. We are purposeful in partnering with our local schools to provide safety demonstrations, award college scholarships, and, through our Bright Ideas Grant Program, recognize local teachers foster a creative learning environment for students. We also provide scholarships to deserving students to attend the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., and local university basketball camps.
Ultimately, the larger community benefits from these programs because of you! You empower the co-op through your membership and your participation in and support of these programs. When you attend co-op events and provide suggestions online or to our employees, you help us improve operations and better serve the larger co-op membership.
We are also thankful for our co-op board members. Each individual dedicates a significant amount of time to attend meetings and training sessions and stay abreast of current industry trends. This investment of time results in better-informed member advisors that serve the best interests of the members they represent.
On a more personal note, we also appreciate the countless acts of kindness our lineworkers and employees receive when working in severe weather and dangerous conditions. Your words of encouragement, support, and patience are greatly appreciated when we are working long hours during challenging situations to restore power.
Thank you for all you do to make our cooperative and community a better place to live. We can’t do it without you, and for that, we’re thankful for your membership. Together, let’s continue making our community a better place to live.
