Co-ops in the Community

In Iowa, an estimated 30,000 nonprofit organizations are helping to enrich their communities and serve their residents. Iowa rural electric cooperatives know the importance of these organizations and assist these organizations in many ways.

Rand Fisher will retire on Jan. 31. In this Statewide Perspective, he shares his thanks and appreciation for the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives’ support in his service as president of the Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) these past 25 years.

The Iowa Area Development Group (IADG) and its electric cooperative, municipal utility and independent telecommunication company sponsors annually recognize outstanding companies and individuals with the Iowa Venture Awards. 

During the holiday season, shopping local is one of the easiest ways to support your friends and neighbors who are also business owners.

For three and a half decades, Iowa’s electric cooperatives have supported the development of 95 industrial parks totaling more than 7,250 acres of property. Industrial parks are instruments for attracting business investment and for creating jobs. 

To celebrate local volunteers, the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives launched the first-ever Shine the Light contest earlier this summer. Employees and member-consumers of Iowa’s locally owned electric cooperatives were invited to nominate someone who makes a positive difference in  their community.

Child care has joined workforce and housing as one of the most critical needs across Iowa. As communities tackle this issue, it is no surprise that Iowa’s rural utilities are engaged and supporting long-term solutions.

The Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives of Iowa started the Shine the Light contest to honor the unsung heroes in our communities who volunteer their time and talents. The finalists are announced in the August issue of the magazine.

Nothing says summertime like pork chops or ribeye steaks sizzling on the grill! With grilling season in full swing, Iowans are sure to find high-quality and flavorful protein options no matter if they shop at the grocery store, local meat locker or purchase from a neighboring farmer

Iowa’s electric cooperatives are excited to announce a new statewide contest, which celebrates our cooperative commitment to community. Called Shine the Light, the contest will accept nominations in June and award three winners with a $1,500 check to their local charity or community organization.