The Co-op Difference

Every October since 1930, not-for-profit cooperatives of all stripes have celebrated Cooperative Month. During this time, it makes sense to highlight the qualities that make electric cooperatives different from other types of utilities and businesses.

For starters, electric co-ops are owned by those they serve. That’s why those who receive electric service from us are called members, not customers. Without members, there would be no Adams Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Members maintain democratic control of our co-op, which means they elect fellow members to represent them on the board of directors/trustees every June at our annual meeting. As a bonus, co-op members receive special benefits through programs like the Co-op Connections® Card discount program. We also return profits to our members winter in the form of capital credits.

One principle that sets us apart from other businesses is our concern for community. As a cooperative, we have a special responsibility to support the areas in which our members live and work. From sponsoring local high school scholarships to supporting new jobs and industry through our economic development efforts, we stand as a driving force in our community

Of course, co-ops span all industries, including credit unions, dairy operations, health care, housing, and much more. There are more than 29,000 co-ops across the nation. And not all are small or rural. Just look at nationally known co-ops like Associated Press, Knouse Foods, Musselman's, PSECU, Shurfine, Sunkist, Ace Hardware, and Land O’ Lakes.

Overall, co-ops are more accessible than other types of businesses. We give our members a voice, and we are local — living and working alongside those we serve.

That’s the cooperative difference.

Source: NRECA’s Straight Talk Alert