Giving thanks and giving back
“Concern for Community” is one of the founding principles of cooperatives around the world, including CEMC. Supporting the people and places we serve is a priority for our team all year long, but during this time of year, concern for community seems especially important.
In October, we participated in the Tennessee Electric Co-op Day of Service. More than 30 members of our team volunteered hours to help Isaiah 117 House in Springfield as well as the Clarksville Association for Down Syndrome.
These two organizations provide wonderful services to children in our area. Isaiah 117 House provides physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children awaiting foster care placement. The Clarksville Association for Down Syndrome (CADS) educates and creates a support network for individuals with Down Syndrome, their families, and the community.
In the six-year history of the Tennessee Electric Co-op Day of Service, some 2,700 employees from electric co-ops across the state have volunteered 6,500 hours to complete 153 individual service projects in co-op communities.
CEMC also organizes a food drive with elementary schools across our service area. Through these food drives, we deliver thousands of unperishable food items to local food banks by each year.
It is easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday season. There is so much to do and so much to see that it can be easy to forget that many families in our communities go without, and that can be especially difficult during this time of year.
Our communities are strongest when we care for one another. We challenge you to find opportunities to give back this season. You can support community organizations such as your local food bank, Red Cross, United Way and others.
There are other ways you can give back to the community that go beyond dollar donations. Take some time to go through your closets and find clothes that no longer fit or have lost their use. Bag those items up, and take them to your local Salvation Army, Goodwill or church clothing drive. Volunteer for a local food or toy drive, deliver meals to the sick and the elderly, or simply make a meal for a neighbor in need.
No matter how great or small the act, every time we give back, we strengthen our community. Take the time to give back this holiday season. You’ll be glad you did.