The Power of We
Author Anthony J. D’Angelo observed that, “Without a sense of caring, there can be no sense of community.”
To a large degree, this reflects Missoula Electric Cooperative’s (MEC’s) philosophy toward our consumer-members and the broader service territory that we serve. As a cooperative, we have a different “bottom line.” While our priority is to provide safe and reliable energy, there is another equally important part of this equation. The well-being of our members and that of the larger community that we serve. To us, you are not just a customer; you are a member of our co-op and without you, we would not exist.
In 1936, MEC was founded to fulfill a vital community need that otherwise would not have been addressed. Concerned local leaders came together to establish our co-op and provide electricity to under-served areas. During this time, members of the community understood MEC was different because they likely knew someone who helped to create our cooperative. For most people, our founding and its circumstances have been long forgotten. Over time, folks in the community may have come to think of us as simply another energy provider. But we know that we are uniquely different. We are a co-op that is continually evolving to meet the needs of the communities we serve and we are able to do this because of members like you.
Since our inception, we have looked to the larger community to guide our long-term decisions. This is why we hold our Annual Meeting each year in March – to engage with you and obtain your feedback. We seek to evolve with the changing energy environment, emerging technology and shifting consumer expectations.We have created convenient billing options like budget billing, to streamline your utility bill, and “Pay Your Way,” which is our pre-paid billing system. We also strive to find new ways to help our members use energy more efficiently. Members can purchase renewable energy from one of our three community solar gardens or take advantage of our energy efficiency rebates.
MEC members help guide important decisions that improve and enrich the community. We value the perspective of our elected board members, who are members of the co-op and community – just like you!As a local business, we have a stake in the community. That’s why we support local charitable organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and the Montana Food Bank, and participate in events like the Turkey Drive, which helps to feed local families in need, and the Electronic Education Equipment Program, which allows us to provide electronic equipment to local schools.
When you support MEC, you encourage our efforts to support the community and make it a better place for everyone. While the times may have changed, our mission and outlook have not. We view our role as a catalyst for good. Together, we can accomplish great things for our community today and in the years to come… this is what we have started to affectionately refer to as “The Power of We.”
Source: NRECA
