Power On: October is National Co-op Month
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s an electric cooperative, the top priority is always to provide reliable, affordable energy to its members they serve. A co-op’s mission is to enrich the lives of its members and serve the long-term interests of the local community—and this mission has never been more critical than in recent months. One of the seven principles that guide all co-ops is “concern for community.” This principle is the essential DNA of electric cooperatives, and it sets them apart from other electric utilities. October is National Co-op Month, and electric cooperatives across the country are highlighting the many ways they “Power On.” Keeping this theme in mind, let’s recognize the essential role co-ops play in serving their community. Who would have fathomed in March, the COVID-19 virus would amount to a test of our community and our nation? The changing circumstances due to the pandemic have created both challenges and opportunities. Over the past several months, we’ve all been challenged to operate differently, and co-ops have stepped up to help their members and strengthen the safety net for vulnerable neighbors. As an essential service, and to ensure the reliability of member’s power supply, co-ops have modified their operations to safeguard business continuity. Line crews
and other employees are working staggered schedules to maintain separation. Some staff work remotely. In the office, limited and modified meetings and gatherings take place to allow for safe separation. Co-ops also adjusted walk-in office availability and in-person service calls to ensure the health and safety of employees and valued members. In addition, co-ops have taken measures to ensure business continuity, for example, hosting annual meetings virtually. For the health and safety of everyone, these measures were the prudent course of action for the times. For members impacted by COVID-19 who needed help with their electric bills, co-ops waived late fees and worked with those hardest hit to make special payment arrangements. Co-ops also offered payment assistance through the Operation RoundUp program, a fund made possible through donations. All of these efforts are meant to show how much co-ops care about the communities they serve. We’ve seen other local businesses rising to meet similar challenges during this time because that’s what communities do. While the challenges caused by COVID-19 have been daunting, we should all be heartened to know everyone is pulling together.
enchantment.coop • October 2020 13
