More than a Customer — a Partner
Every October is Co-op Month, where we celebrate the principles and values that have helped guide our cooperative for more than six decades. We celebrate the way everyday citizens worked together all those years ago to bring electricity, and the prosperity that came with it, to our rural communities. We celebrate the fact that Wells Rural Electric Co. is led by our communities, for our communities. Mostly, though, we celebrate you, our members. It’s impossible to celebrate our cooperative without appreciating the members who motivate us every single day.
We are public power. We are more powerful together.
To learn how you and WREC are #MorePowerfulTogether, visit our website.
Understanding the 7 Cooperative Principles
Cooperatives around the world operate according to the same set of core principles and values, adopted by the International Cooperative Alliance. These principles are a key reason why America’s electric cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of our members first.
Voluntary and Open Membership
Membership in a cooperative is open to all those who can reasonably use its services and stand willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.
Democratic Member Control
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members. Elected representatives (directors/trustees) are elected from among the membership and are accountable to the membership. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote); cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner.
Members’ Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the cooperative. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing the cooperative, setting up reserves, benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative, and supporting other activities approved by the membership.
Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity.
Education, Training, and Information
Education and training for members, elected representatives (directors or trustees), CEOs and employees help them effectively contribute to the development of their cooperatives. Communications about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly with the general public and opinion leaders, helps boost cooperative understanding.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
By working together through local, regional, national and international structures, cooperatives improve services, bolster local economies, and deal more effectively with social and community needs.
Concern for Community
Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by the membership.
