There are many reasons I love the month of October, but among the very top is that it’s National Co-op Month! Not only is this an opportunity for co-ops across the country to feature the unique advantages of being part of the co-op family but also celebrate the members who make it all possible. You!

As the CEO of Farmers Electric, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for shareholders. We exist to serve our members, our neighbors and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded, and it’s what continues to drive every decision we make.

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. That’s not just a tagline; it’s the very heart of our business model. Members have a voice in how our co-op operates. You elect board members who live right here in our service area and understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made here at home, by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines.

Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs, partnering with volunteer organizations or helping bring broadband to rural areas, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. Community support isn’t an afterthought—it’s part of our mission.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose. Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.