As some of you might know, cooperatives across the globe adhere to the same Seven Cooperative Principles, which guide our decisions—from how we run the co-op to how we engage with our communities.
Concern for Community is the seventh principle, and it’s one of the most cherished among the employees of Trinity Valley Electric Cooperative. During the holiday season, this principle seems especially important.
Electric cooperatives have a proud history of supporting the communities that built them. From toy and food drives to scholarships and direct charitable donations, TVEC steps up to help our members, their friends and families, and neighbors.
Co-op members do their part, too. Through the Operation Round Up program, members can round up their energy bills to the next whole dollar, and the extra change goes toward helping those in need, right here in our community.
Electric cooperatives’ commitment to community extends globally too. Co-ops across the country have donated equipment and sent lineworkers to other countries—to help bring power to people who have never experienced the benefits of electricity.
So many families go without on a daily basis and struggle to make ends meet. This struggle can be especially hard during the holiday season.
There are many ways you can give back to the community that go beyond dollars and cents. Take some time to go through your closets and find clothes that no longer fit or you don’t use. Bag them up and take them to a local charity or church clothing drive. Volunteer for a local food or toy drive, deliver meals to the sick and older adults, or simply make a meal for a neighbor in need.
No matter how great or small the act, every time we lend a hand, we strengthen our community. So take time this holiday season to think about your neighbors. If you’re like me, you’ll feel all the better for it.
I hope you enjoy a wonderful holiday season filled with happiness and love.
