October is National Cooperative Month, and we are celebrating by highlighting emerging leaders in Indiana’s cooperatives. This month’s feature story showcases eight individuals who are making a difference in their co-ops and communities.

As you read their profiles, you will notice a common theme: a deep commitment to the co-op culture and a genuine concern for serving their members. It’s hard not to embrace this commitment when you work for a co-op.

From my experience, the co-op world is truly unique. There is no competition among electric cooperatives; instead, each co-op is willing to share information and assist others with any challenges they meet.

Having come from the trade press industry, where there is intense competition and jostling to be first, I found this concept eye-opening. I’m even part of an association of cooperative magazine editors from various states who collaborate on projects to promote the industry. That type of open, collaborative group does not typically exist among other types of magazines. 

Co-ops are managed by people from your own communities. The staff and board of directors are your friends, neighbors, and sometimes even family members. They understand your energy and billing concerns because they share them. Because electric cooperatives are not-for-profit, they represent their members’ best interests and do not seek to charge more to line their pockets.

In today’s environment, it’s hard not to feel like every company is out to get you or overcharge you just to gain a profit. Co-op members can take solace in knowing their co-op is working for them, and that’s something to celebrate all year.