Celebrated by cooperatives nationwide during the month of October, National Co-op Month is an annual opportunity to raise awareness of a trusted, proven way to do business and build communities. Across the United States, cooperatives bring a variety of resources and services to consumers that they might otherwise do without. From agriculture, utilities, finance, and more, these organizations play a significant role across the United States. Not only do they expand options to consumers, but they increase economic resources for rural communities, too. Through better infrastructure, added educational support, and employment opportunities, cooperatives strengthen rural populations.

Cooperatives fill needs and keep thriving communities going. And that’s exactly what Fayette Electric Cooperative and Colorado Valley Communications do for their communities. National Co-op Month is a perfect time for these two cooperatives to work together to help their communities thrive through initiatives led by their employees and local board members.

Like wires running through their service territory, their concern for community flows through all their decision-making — because being a co-op means being a responsible partner and good neighbor. In celebration of these cooperative traits, the two cooperatives came together on Friday, October 13, to host their 6th Annual Document Shred Day.

“We are happy that we have a great relationship with FEC and like FEC, we strive to improve the quality of life in the areas we serve,” said Colorado Valley Telephone Cooperative General Manager, Kelly Allison. “Fayette Electric Cooperative is committed to providing our members with exceptional service and value. Co-op Customer Shred Day is just one of the ways we strive to support and protect our members,” said FEC General Manager Gary Don Nietsche.

“Fayette Electric Cooperative is committed to providing our members with exceptional service and value. Co-op Customer Shred Day is just one of the ways we strive to support and protect our members,” said FEC General Manager Gary Don Nietsche. 

The shred day event was designed to provide a secure and convenient way for cooperative members to dispose of sensitive documents and to help protect them from identity theft. Members of both cooperatives took advantage of the free shredding services at both locations. Those who brought more than three boxes donated funds which were given to the AMEN Food Pantry and Mini Horse Helpers of La Grange. $500 was given to each charity.