October is National Co-op Month
Posted: October 1, 2020 at 11:14 am
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As an electric cooperative, our mission is to serve our members and support our local community––an especially critical mission in recent months. One of the seven principles that guides all co-ops is “concern for community.” This principle is the essential DNA of Peace River Electric Cooperative and sets us apart from other electric utilities.
October is National Co-op Month, and electric cooperatives across the country are highlighting the many ways we “Power On.” Keeping this theme in mind, PRECO recognizes the essential role we play in serving a unique community like ours.
Who would have imagined in March that COVID-19 would amount to a test of our community and our nation? The changing circumstances due to the pandemic have challenged everyone to operate differently, and PRECO has stepped up to help our members.
As an essential service, and to ensure the reliability of your power supply, we modified our operations to safeguard business continuity. Our line crews and other employees began working on staggered schedules to maintain separation. Many of our staff started working from home. In the office, we observe social distancing and are modifying meetings to allow for safe separation. We also adjusted in-person service calls to help protect the health and safety of our employees and valued members alike.
For our members impacted by COVID-19 who needed help with their electric bills, we waived late fees and worked with them to make special payment arrangements. And, because we care about this community, our Operation Round Up charitable foundation has contributed over $60,000 in food assistance to local organizations.
We’ve seen other local businesses rising to meet similar challenges during this time because that’s what communities do. While COVID-19 has impacted every area of people’s lives, we’re encouraged to see how everyone is pulling together.
In 1940, PRECO was built by the community to serve the community, and that’s what we’ll continue to do – Power On.