Practical guidance for strengthening rural electric co-ops through informed members and strong community ties.
This handbook helps co-ops plan and run education programs that explain what a co-op is, how electricity helps the community, and why member ownership matters. It emphasizes the “how” of outreach—using print, meetings, and media to reach member-owners and the wider community.
The book frames the core tasks of electrification advisers, educators, and cooperative staff. It explains why informed members help a co-op operate efficiently and meet community needs, and it shows how to build goodwill through active participation in local life. You’ll find practical guidance on organizing discussions, selecting topics, and working with different media to share clear, accurate information.
What you’ll experience
- Clear reasons for member education and its link to strong co-ops and lower operating costs
- Step-by-step ideas for planning and leading educational activities and discussions
- Ways to use newsletters, state papers, leaflets, and other printed materials
- Access to REA resources and guidance on power use topics, community relations, and program planning
Ideal for readers involved in co-op leadership, member education, or community outreach, this edition helps you turn information into action.