With Thanksgiving fast approaching, I’d like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for your membership in our electric cooperative. Recent events have made me pause and think about the role we play in our community and because of your membership, we are able to make our community a better place. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve made numerous adjustments to programs and operations to maintain business continuity while staying focused on the mission of helping our members and community during this turbulent time.

You’re probably aware of our Operation Round Up program, where we take donations from generous members like you who have “rounded” their electric bill up to nearest dollar to help our local non-profit organizations better serve our community. 

We are intentional in collaborating with local groups such as the United Way for community services and programs, and our local schools to provide safety demonstrations, award college scholarships and various sponsorships. We also work closely with the 4-H fair board to further support our youth. Ultimately, the larger community benefits from these programs because of you! You empower the co-op through your membership and through your support and participation of these programs.

We are thankful for our co-op board members who carve out time to attend board meetings and important training sessions, participate in planning meetings and keep abreast of industry trends. This investment in time results in better-informed advisors who serve the co-op’s interests in a way that our members expect and deserve. 

On a more personal note, we appreciate the countless acts of kindness our lineworkers and other employees receive when they are working in severe weather and dangerous conditions. Our employees are thankful for your patience and consideration when we are trying to restore power during challenging situations and prolonged periods. 

Bartholomew County REMC was originally established 83 years ago to bring electricity to our area when no one else would. The cooperative is a reflection of our local community and its evolving needs. Together, let’s continue making our corner of the world a better place. We can’t do it without you, and for that, we’re thankful for your membership. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!