Cooperative
Difference

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Cooperatives are democratic organizations owned and controlled by their members. As a member of Arrowhead Cooperative, this means you have the ability to actively participate in how the Cooperative is operated – setting policies and making decisions.

As an electric cooperative, our service is to provide electricity, but our purpose is to support and empower our member-consumers and communities through economic development and community outreach. Like all cooperative businesses, we are guided by the following seven principles:

Voluntary and Open Membership

Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination.

Democratic Member Control

Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. The elected representatives are accountable to the membership.

Members’ Economic Participation

Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital is the common property of the co-op.

Autonomy and Independence

Co-ops are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members.

Education, Training and Information

Co-ops provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-ops.

Cooperation Among Co-Ops

Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, regional, national, and international structures.

Concern for Community

While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members.