It’s a Matter of
(Co-op!) Principles
FOR ME , This is a time of year for reflection, and topping my list of things I’m grateful for are the
wonderful communities within the San Bernard Electric Cooperative territory. I know I speak for all SBEC employees when I say that we are thankful to be in such an incredible place. We are fortunate to live in the same place where we work, which makes our ties to this community that much stronger.
You may recall that last month my column touched on the first three cooperative principles, so this month I’d like to tell you about the remaining four principles. The Seven Cooperative Principles are essential to the co-op business model and bene-fit all members of the co-op.
Autonomy and Independence
The fourth principle, Autonomy and Independence, means that the co-op operates in an autonomous way that is solely directed and guided by its mem-bers, reflecting the values and needs of our local community. This means the co-op is not being influenced by leaders or shareholders several states away. Instead, the co-op is led by the local members it serves.
Education, Training and Information
The fifth principle, Education, Training and Information, focuses on enhancing the knowledge of co-op employees and board members, which enables them to contribute to the development of the co-op.
By investing in continual learning for our staff and board members, our co-op is making a commitment not just to individual professional and personal growth but to the future of the co-op and the high quality of service our members expect and deserve. It’s a win-win situation.
We also strive to inform our members (that’s you!) and the public about the mission and operations of the co-op. In fact, that’s why you receive the Texas Co-Op Power magazine every month—so we can share the latest co-op news and updates as well as energy efficiency and safety tips.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Cooperation Among Cooperatives is the sixth principle and articulates how co-ops work together to address bigger challenges. While this principle applies to all types of co-ops, it’s especially relevant in the energy industry, where it’s pressed into action after storms and disasters that cause widespread power outages. When this happens, we call on nearby co-ops to come to our aid and assist with restoration efforts—and we of course extend the same help to them when they need us. I can’t think of a better example of Cooperation Among Cooperatives.
In addition, because we are part of the national electric co-op network, we can connect and collabo-rate with other electric co-ops to tackle industry-related challenges, like cybersecurity and the ever-changing energy landscape.
Concern for Community
The seventh principle, Concern for Community, is essential to who we are as cooperatives. We serve our community not only by being an essential service but by helping to power our local economy. Whether through economic development, volunteerism or donations to local causes, we invest in this commu-nity because it’s our home too.
I think you’ll find that most cooperatives bring good people together to make good things happen in the community. We hope you feel that way about us, your local electric co-op.
On behalf of everyone at San Bernard EC, we’re thankful for your membership, and we hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Until next time, take care.