Fayette Electric Cooperative and Colorado Valley Communications Celebrate National Co-op Month with Community-Focused Shred Event and Donation

Every October, cooperatives across the nation unite to celebrate National Co-op Month, spotlighting the cooperative business model—a trusted, community-driven approach that strengthens and sustains local communities. Cooperatives play a vital role in industries such as agriculture, utilities, and finance, enriching lives and expanding consumer choice while fueling the economic vitality of rural America through infrastructure improvements, educational support, and job creation.

Fayette Electric Cooperative (FEC) and Colorado Valley Communications exemplify this mission, consistently serving and uplifting their communities. National Co-op Month offers a meaningful opportunity for these organizations to collaborate in ways that drive local progress, guided by the leadership of their employees and board members.

Just as power and telephone lines connect homes and businesses, the values of community and responsibility run through every decision made by FEC and Colorado Valley Communications. In celebration of these shared values, the cooperatives hosted their 8th Annual Document Shred Day on Friday, October 3, providing members with a secure and convenient way to dispose of sensitive documents and protect against identity theft.

“Cooperation is more than a principle—it’s a way of life for us. At Colorado Valley Communications, we’re proud to stand alongside Fayette Electric Cooperative during National Co-op Month to celebrate the values that connect us to our communities. Events like Shred Day show how small actions can lead to meaningful impact,” said Kelly Allison, General Manager of Colorado Valley Communications.

FEC General Manager Doug Lambert added, “At Fayette Electric Cooperative, we believe that community is at the heart of everything we do. National Co-op Month is a reminder of the strength found in cooperation and shared purpose. Partnering with Colorado Valley Communications for Shred Day not only helps protect our members—it also allows us to give back in meaningful ways, like supporting the Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter. It’s a powerful example of how cooperatives build stronger communities together.”

The event saw strong participation from cooperative members, many of whom took advantage of the free shredding services offered at both locations. Those who brought more than two boxes made generous donations, resulting in $1,500 being donated to the Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter in La Grange.

This collaborative effort is a testament to the power of cooperatives working together to make a lasting difference—one document, one donation, and one community at a time.