EREC celebrates The International Year of Cooperatives in 2012

January 24, 2012

The Power of Sticking Together

Henry Ford said, “Coming together is a beginning.  Keeping together is progress.  Working together is success.”

As we celebrate the International Year of Cooperatives, we highlight the importance of cooperation among cooperatives and how Escambia River Electric Cooperative embodies this principle.

Cooperatives understand the value of teamwork.  After all, it is one of our founding principles.  Whether in times of need or times of triumph, a strong network of cooperatives and their members band together to meet challenges and celebrate successes.  Whether restoring power following a storm, teaming up to attract business or fighting for affordable energy initiatives in Washington, cooperatives unite to protect our members’ interests.

There is a history of co-ops helping co-ops in times of crisis.  In the days and weeks following traumatic disasters, such as Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis, crews from across the country were on hand to help rebuild our crippled electric system.  With their help, EREC restored power to members safely and efficiently – and more quickly than we could have without their help.  On numerous occasions, our crews have done the same, and will continue to do so in the future.

Co-ops also join forces to aid in economic development efforts.  These partnerships allow EREC and our sister cooperatives to pool resources in recruiting businesses that bring much-needed jobs and tax revenue to our area.

There is strength in numbers.  Co-ops have sent a strong message to Washington that energy must remain affordable and reliable.  Through a network of cooperatives across the country, our voice is heard on issues that impact energy cost and availability.

We cannot all converge on Capitol Hill to make our position known, but we can work together to send representatives to deliver our message.

This year, we join with cooperatives around the world to celebrate and honor cooperatives and their members who consistently work to make the world a better place.

###

Cooperative News