As we embrace the Christmas season, we’re reminded of its profound meaning—the celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. This season brings with it a spirit of kindness, hope and renewal, inspiring us to give generously and care deeply for our families and neighbors. We share the belief that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us. This sentiment seamlessly aligns with your cooperative’s commitment to the Seventh Cooperative Principle, Concern for Community.

My children are adults now, but when they were growing up, I would tell them, “A person’s life should be better because you are in it…” This idea is about living life with purpose and intentionality. It means that our presence, actions and interactions should have a positive impact on others. While I’m not perfect by any means, I truly try to live my life by this saying.

Last year, a friend gave me a book titled The Rocking Chair Prophet by Mark Kelly. This book explores themes of purpose, fulfillment and spiritual wisdom through the eyes of a wise old man who shares lessons with a young man who is searching for deeper meaning in life.

“Generosity has the power to rehumanize the world.” —Mark Kelly The Rocking Chair Prophet

One significant topic was generosity. Kelly points out that generosity doesn’t always mean giving money; there are many other ways to give. Some of these ways are simply expressing your appreciation for someone or something, visiting a neighbor who is lonely or supporting a local business in your area. Mark Kelly writes, “Generosity has the power to rehumanize the world. Generosity cures sick and injured cultures.”

At their core, acts of generosity are rooted in concern for our community and love of others. The desire to demonstrate this concern for our neighbors is one of the reasons our People Helping People (PHP) program was created.

This program embodies the mission and unity that Christmas represents. The PHP program enables members to “round up” their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar. The extra change goes into the PHP account, which is used to fund requests for assistance from members in need of financial help because of circumstances outside of their control.

Each participating member contributes an average of just $6 per year (or about 50 cents per month). This program reflects the spirit of Christmas and celebrates the blessings of our cooperative community all year long.

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the PHP Board of Directors for their dedication and stewardship. Their commitment ensures that each contribution is used wisely, helping those in our community with true compassion. Their work behind the scenes makes all the difference, guiding our efforts to serve more people with dignity and care. I encourage you to carry the Christmas spirit forward by signing up for the PHP program this month to support your fellow members.

Lastly, I want to leave you with more inspiring words from Matthew Kelly, “Astound people with your generosity. Use your one short life to do the most good for the most people. Generosity is one of the few things in this world that still has the power to intrigue people.”

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a joyful season filled with giving, gratitude and meaningful connection.

Cooperatively yours,
Dennis Mabe, Chief Executive Officer