Even in times of change, co-ops across the country are finding ways to engage with and thank their members. Co-op Month may look different this year, but our appreciation for the members we serve remains the same.
National Co-op Month is always a time for celebration and community. Like many other co-ops across the country, Pioneer Electric takes the opportunity each year to thank our members and celebrate them. Events like Safety Fest, senior center lunches and Chamber Coffee would normally take place as Co-op Month celebrations, but 2020 has us stretching our creative muscles.
Pioneer Electric is committed to safety year-round, and the opportunity to share that commitment with the communities and students we serve is one we take with pride. As communities pivot and adjust, learning how to make events safe and accessible, Pioneer Electric is doing the same with many events, including Safety Fest in Ulysses. Students will receive the traditional Safety Fest backpack but instead of gathering goodies as they browse safety booths, they will come loaded with goodies that students will be able to use all year.
October is also poster contest season. Last year, Pioneer Electric expanded the contest to include third and fourth-grade students. Students are encouraged to put on their artist aprons and design posters around the theme “electrical safety at home or school.” Two posters, one from each grade, will be selected as winners. The students with the winning posters will receive an Amazon Fire tablet and a $250 donation to their classroom.
Another Co-op Month favorite is the annual senior center lunches. Pioneer takes the opportunity each year to partner with our local senior centers and spend some time with our members over the lunch hour. This year, lunch is still on Pioneer Electric, though we will not be able to attend in person. Each senior center has selected a day in October that Pioneer Electric will cover the cost of lunch for members in attendance. We will also be sending a small token of our appreciation for each person who attends lunch that day.
Pioneer Electric values the time we spend with our members be it through events, or at our drive-up window. We thank our members for putting their trust in us each day. During the month of October, we are reminded that the power behind our co-op is provided by you, our members.