As the holiday season approaches and the air turns crisp, we are reminded that this truly is the season of giving. It is a time for gratitude, generosity, and looking out for one another — and at Highline Electric Association, that is something we take to heart year-round.
You have probably heard us talk about our concern for community. It is not just a nice phrase, it is one of the core principles that makes electric cooperatives like HEA different from other utilities. We are not just here to keep the lights on, though we are always working hard to do that. We are here to make life better for the people we serve — our members, our neighbors, and our friends.
Over the years, we have faced challenges together, and every time, our co-op family has stepped up. We band together to support those in need, to keep our community strong, and to build something better for the future. That spirit of generosity is never more evident than during the holiday season.
Take our HEA Cares program, for example. This program allows employees to contribute to a fund through a payroll deduction. The fund is administered by an employee committee and it helps families who are struggling to make ends meet, usually after being confronted with an unexpected medical emergency. Every little bit adds up — and it makes a big difference.
We are also proud to support local students through the Youth Tour program, where we send some of our community’s brightest young people to Washington, D.C., to see democracy in action and dream big about their futures. That is giving in the most meaningful way: investing in tomorrow’s leaders.
Since we care deeply about safety, we also spend time visiting schools throughout the communities we serve, holding demonstrations and teaching folks of all ages how to stay safe around electricity. We believe knowledge is a gift and we love sharing it.
You will also find our team out in the community beyond work — coaching youth sports, volunteering at local events, serving on nonprofit boards, and partnering with our chambers of commerce — to keep our local economy strong. Because when you are part of a co-op, giving back is not a requirement — it’s just what you do.
While the holiday season is a festive time, we understand these can be tough times for many. If you need advice on saving energy to reduce your energy bills, want to explore payment plan options, or you simply have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our energy efficiency rebate program can help to make efficient electrical appliances more affordable. We are here to help, not just during the holiday season, but all year long.
At Highline, we believe concern for community is more than a value — it is the heart of who we are. And during this season of giving, we are especially grateful to be part of such a caring, generous community.
From all of us at Highline, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful, safe, and bright holiday season.
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Dennis Herman is the General Manager of Highline Electric Association. HEA’s mission is to provide our members with reliable, high-quality electricity and other needed services, which will improve their economic and social well-being and provide significant long-range benefits for our communities, our state, and our nation.
