News > October is National Co-op Month

October is National Co-op Month

September 30, 2025

In October, electric cooperatives across the country take time to celebrate National Co-op Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative. 

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. Members have a voice in how our Cooperative operates. You elect Board members who live in our service area and understand the challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions are made here at home, by people who care about the same things you do. 

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing real value to the people we serve. 

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines. 

Co-ops were built to meet community needs. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs or partnering with volunteer organizations, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. 

 National Co-op Month is the perfect time to thank you—the members—who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do. 

WE HOPE YOU CAN CELEBRATE NATIONAL CO-OP MONTH WITH US AT OUR OPEN HOUSE! 

Wednesday, October 1, 2025
12-2 p.m. and 4-6 p.m.
NEW Operations Center and Headquarters 700 Kraft Drive SE, Melrose 

• Tour the New Facility 
• Meet Your Co-op Staff and Board Members 
• Receive your Member Gift 
• Enjoy Light Refreshments and Cookies 

Stop in anytime during the Open House to help us celebrate this major milestone and to learn more about how the new facility helps us extend reliability, energy and service beyond our walls to you, our members! 

LEARN MORE AT
stearnselectric.org/melrose-facility