Message from CEO/General Manager - Rhett Reid

Co-ops Power Communities With Purpose

Communities come in all shapes and sizes. Some are based on geographical proximity, some are based on shared interests or hobbies, and some can even be found in virtual spaces like social media groups. Regardless of where they are or how they're formed, communities bring people together and create a sense of belonging. Rusk County Electric Cooperative is deeply committed to our members, and we're glad you're part of the electric cooperative community.

    This October, more than 30,000 cooperatives across the U.S. are celebrating National Cooperative Month. It's a time to reflect on all the aspects that set co-ops apart from other types of businesses, but importantly, it's a time to celebrate the power of co-op membership. Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit utilities built by the communities they serve. For Rusk County EC, our mission has always been to provide you with reliable power. We care about your quality of life, and because we're locally operated, we're uniquely suited to meet our members' evolving energy needs.

    Beyond the business of electricity, our employees and directors are equally invested in our local community, because we live here too. That's why we work hard to support local economic development projects, youth programs, scholarships, charitable giving initiatives, and additional programs that make our community a better place to call home.

    All co-ops, including Rusk County EC, are guided by seven principles that embody the values and spirit of the cooperative movement and form a framework for navigating challenges and opportunities while remaining true to our purpose.

    1. Open and Voluntary Membership: Co-op membership is open to anyone who can use the co-op’s services.

    2. Democratic Member Control: Members make decisions that shape the cooperative because co-ops are created by the members, for the members.

    3. Members’ Economic Participation: Members contribute money to the co-op to make sure it runs smoothly now and in the future. At Rusk County EC, this happens through paying your energy bills.

    4. Autonomy and Independence: Co-ops are independent and can operate on their own, which ultimately benefits the members.

    5. Education, Training and Information: Co-ops continuously focus on education to ensure employees have the training and information they need to make the co-op successful.

    6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Co-ops share with and learn from other cooperatives. We help each other out in times of need because we want other co-ops to thrive.

    7. Concern for Community: All cooperatives work for the greater good of the local communities they serve. Co-ops give back to their communities to help them flourish and grow.

    This October, as we celebrate National Co-op Month and the power of membership, we hope you’ll recognize the many aspects that set electric cooperatives apart. Our mission is safe, reliable power. Our purpose is people—the local communities we’re proud to serve.