In the book The Next Greatest Thing, which tells the story of rural electrification in America, there’s a powerful image of neighbors working side by side to build something bigger than themselves. Farmers and businessmen became leaders for their communities to form what was known as “the REA” to help eliminate darkness and improve their way of life. That was the birth of the cooperative difference: neighbors serving neighbors.

There was a farmer in Tennessee in the early 1940s who was quoted as saying:

“Brothers and sisters, I want to tell you this. The greatest thing on earth is to have the love of God in your heart, and the next greatest thing is to have electricity in your house.”

Another farmer, after being told he lived too far from the first line to receive power, returned a few days later and said he had paid his membership fee and was ready to be connected. Again, he was told,

“You’re too far from the line. We can’t do it.”

His response was simple:
“That’s all right—I moved my house closer to the line.”

It’s hard for us to imagine life today without electricity, but in those early days the impact was life-changing.

Picture the excitement of buying your very first refrigerator, then running to the kitchen to open the door and seeing that little light flicker on inside. It was proof that things had truly changed. Families often broke down in tears the moment the lights came on, knowing deep in their hearts that life was about to be better, safer, and full of new possibilities for their loved ones.

These stories may seem small, but they capture the very heart of the cooperative difference. From the beginning, it was never just about poles, wires, and transformers; it was about determination, resilience, and community. Just as those farmers came together to bring light to their homes, today our members, employees, and communities continue that same spirit of working hand in hand to support one another.

That’s what sets us apart from other utilities. We’re not driven by stockholders across the country; we’re guided by the members right here at home. Our purpose is rooted in service, not profit. When storms hit, when costs rise, when our community has needs, you can count on your cooperative to be there.

So, this October, as we celebrate Member Appreciation Month, I want to thank you for being part of the Randolph EMC family. Your trust and support allow us to continue carrying forward the same cooperative spirit that lit up the countryside generations ago. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are the cooperative difference.

Cooperatively yours,
Dennis Mabe, CEO