For most people, their electricity provider is just the company that keeps the lights on. But an electric cooperative’s relationship with its member-owners is different. Since the 1930s when Indiana’s electric cooperatives were formed, they have thrived because of the political engagement between their members and local, state, and federal governments.
Indiana’s electric cooperatives advocate for rural Hoosiers like you on the state and federal levels so they can continue providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy — and maintain the quality of life in rural communities. But electric cooperative members need to participate in the process, too. Indiana’s electric cooperatives thrive when their members stay politically engaged and advocate for policies that help cooperatives.
How can you help do this? It all starts with grassroots activism. In the context of the electric cooperative program, “grassroots” is a powerful word. In fact, the historical success of the electric cooperatives can be largely credited to that single word.
The electric cooperative definition of “grassroots” is “electric cooperative activists — directors, managers, employees, and members — who take an active role in the political process to protect their cooperative from harmful legislation and regulation, as well as to promote the value of cooperative ownership to their legislators.”
Grassroots involvement means communicating with local, state, and federal legislators on issues affecting electric cooperatives.
Grassroots — the unified efforts and voices of the nation’s electric co-op supporters — has proven to be the foundation of the industry’s 85 years of success in serving electric co-ops, their owners, and their communities.
What does a grassroots advocate do?
By registering as an advocate for Indiana’s electric cooperatives, you will be kept up to date on major legislative and political utility issues, at both the state and federal levels. You will receive monthly communication via email or text alert, ranging from educational pieces, surveys, story collections, and even calls to action.
Grassroots advocates for Indiana’s electric cooperatives help keep rural Indiana strong and the cooperative voice heard. Advocates may also be called upon to contact their legislators and speak up for Indiana’s electric cooperatives. As a grassroots advocate, you will be on the front lines of keeping rural Hoosiers’ voices loud and strong.
To become a grassroots advocate for Indiana’s electric cooperatives, visit action.indianaec.org.
