Electric Co-ops Hold a Special Place in the Community
One of the key principles guiding Wasco Electric Cooperative (WEC) is Concern for the Community. This principle emphasizes electric cooperatives' commitment to the sustainable development of their communities through policies and programs that improve quality of life.
Some recent community engagement events illustrate how WEC puts this principle into action.
For the past 3 years, we have hosted a member appreciation picnic, an event that brings together community members for a day of fun, information, food, music, and fellowship.
From face painting and games for children to live music and delicious local food, this year’s picnic provided an opportunity for members to connect with one another and with cooperative staff. The event is a celebration of our members, who are the backbone of the cooperative and is a testament to our commitment to fostering a strong, connected community.
WEC also takes pride in participating in local parades, which are vibrant displays of community spirit and tradition. This year, our staff and their families decorated a float for the Cherry Festival Parade and participated in Wasco’s Memorial Day Parade, Shaniko Days 50th Celebration, and Dufur’s Threshing Bee Day Parade, to name a few.
These parades are not only a way for us to celebrate alongside our community but also an opportunity for our community to get to know the team that works tirelessly to provide safe and reliable electricity.
At WEC, we take great pride in ensuring the safety of our members and everyone in our communities. One way we do this is by regularly participating in school safety programs to educate youth on electrical safety.
Our school visits include interactive demonstrations on the dangers of electricity and how to stay safe around power lines and electrical equipment. By engaging with students in a fun and informative way, we aim to instill lifelong habits that promote safety and awareness.
In addition to safety, preparedness is a crucial aspect of community resilience. WEC is actively involved in local preparedness events, working alongside emergency services to ensure our community is ready for any situation.
At these events, we explain how to prepare for power outages, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Our staff also demonstrate the cooperative’s efforts in maintaining and restoring power during a crisis, highlighting the importance of preparedness and the cooperative’s role in ensuring reliable service.
These events underscore WEC’s dedication to Concern for the Community. By participating in and organizing these activities, we further strengthen our bonds with our members and the communities we live in and serve.
Our commitment to community involvement is more than just a principle. It is a core value that drives every aspect of our operations. We are proud to serve our members and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact in the communities we call home.
If you missed us at any of these events, we encourage you to attend our annual meeting on Saturday, November 23, when you can see firsthand our commitment to you, our members.
Keep an eye out for more details on the time and location.
Lindsay Forepaugh
General Manager