From the CEO's Desk: By Doug Tracy

The holiday season is here, and we’re reminded that this truly is the season of giving. It’s a time for gratitude, generosity, and looking out for one another — and at Cuivre River Electric Cooperative (CREC), that’s something we take to heart year-round.

You’ve probably heard us talk about our concern for community. It’s not just a nice phrase — it’s one of the core principles that makes electric cooperatives like ours different from other utilities. We’re not just here to keep the lights on (but of course, we’re always working hard to do that). We’re here to make life better for the people we serve — our members, our neighbors, and our friends.

The spirit of generosity is never more evident than during the holiday season. 

Each year, our employees find ways to help the communities we serve, such as adopting a family for the holiday, volunteering with the Salvation Army’s bell ringer program, and collecting and donating items for local food banks. Because when you’re part of a co-op, giving back isn’t a requirement; it’s just what you do.  

We’re grateful for the generosity of our members’ participation in CREC’s Operation Round Up (ORU) program. Generating a few pennies by rounding up your electric bill may not seem like much. But when multiplied by the thousands of members who do so, well, that small change can make a big difference for local individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. Since 1997, ORU has awarded some $8 million in grants to those in need. 

We’re also proud to support local students through the Youth Tour program, where we send some of our community’s brightest young people to Washington, D.C., to see democracy in action and dream big about their futures. That’s giving in the most meaningful way — by investing in tomorrow’s leaders.

And because we care deeply about safety, we also spend time visiting schools and community organizations throughout our service area, holding demonstrations and teaching folks of all ages how to stay safe around electricity. We believe knowledge is a gift too — and we love sharing it.

It’s a festive time of year, but we also understand these can be tough times for many. If you need advice on saving energy to reduce your energy bills, explore payment plan options, or if you simply have questions, please contact us. We’re here to help, not just during the holiday season, but all year long.

At CREC, we believe concern for community is more than a value; it’s the heart of who we are. And during this season of giving, we’re especially grateful to be part of such a caring, generous community.

We wish you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and bright holiday season.