Manager Articles

OHIO COOPERATIVE LIVING

NOVEMBER 2025

A season of thankfulness

November is a time when many of us pause to reflect on what we’re grateful for. As your cooperative CEO, I am continually reminded of how fortunate we are at Darke Rural Electric Cooperative. 

First and foremost, I am thankful for you — our members. You are the reason we exist. Since 1936, Darke REC has been committed to serving homes, farms, and businesses across our community. Your trust in us allows our cooperative to continue providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity while also giving back in ways that make our communities stronger. 

I am also thankful for our employees. Every day, they dedicate themselves to living out our mission. Whether it’s linemen braving storms to restore power, member service representatives answering your calls with care, or our support staff keeping operations running smoothly, their hard work ensures that our members receive the very best service possible. Their commitment to excellence is something I deeply appreciate. 

Along with our employees, I want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to their spouses and families. Our lineworkers, office staff, and team members often make personal sacrifices to serve our members — late nights, long hours, and time away from home. None of that would be possible without the understanding and support of their loved ones. The cooperative family is made stronger by the families who stand behind those who serve. 

Finally, I am grateful for our board of trustees. The board’s role is not to manage the day-to-day operations of the cooperative — that’s the responsibility of our employees — but rather to provide oversight, guidance, and accountability. They make sure your cooperative is on the right path, upholding our mission and values while planning for a strong future. It is a vital responsibility, and one they carry out with integrity and care. 

Speaking of our board, cooperative governance is rooted in Cooperative Principle No. 2: Democratic Member Control. This principle ensures that every member has an equal voice in the decision-making process of their cooperative. Each member has one vote, and trustees are elected from among the membership to represent your interests. 

This year, districts 4 and 7 are up for election. In accordance with our bylaws, any member who resides in these districts is eligible to run for the board of trustees. Serving as a trustee is both an honor and a responsibility — helping guide the direction of your cooperative on behalf of fellow members. On the following page, you’ll find more information about the election process and how you can become involved. 

As we head into this season of thankfulness, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all of you —our members, employees, and trustees. Together, we continue to build a stronger cooperative and a brighter future for our communities. 

From all of us at Darke REC, we wish you and your family a safe and blessed Thanksgiving.