The Strength of Local Cooperatives in Bladen County –

Staff report

Photo by the author North Carolina Cooperative Council

October marks Co-op montha time dedicated to raising awareness of the important role that co-operatives play in our economy and society. Cooperatives are unique enterprises that are owned and controlled by the members they serve and are designed to meet the economic, social and cultural needs of their members. They follow principles such as self-governance, member responsibility and are guided by values ​​that support the community.

Did you know?

• Cooperatives provide more $25 billion in wages annually.
• 12% The world’s population are members of cooperatives.
• 10% The world’s population works in a cooperative.
• There is only one in the world 3 million cooperatives.

These statistics reflect the significant global impact of co-ops, but the impact of co-ops is also greatly felt here in Bladen County, North Carolina.

Local Co-ops Lead the Way

Bladen County is home to two great cooperatives that embody the values ​​of collaboration and community orientation: Stellar Communications And Four Counties Electrical Membership Corporation.

Stellar Communications

Star Communications is a cooperative that provides state-of-the-art telecommunications services, including high-speed Internet access, television and telephone service, to Bladen County and surrounding areas. They are designed to ensure rural communities stay connected in an increasingly digital world. As a cooperative, Star Communications works for its members, not shareholders, ensuring that the needs of the community come first. The continued expansion of fiber internet services helps bridge the digital divide, allowing local businesses, schools and residents to thrive in a connected economy.

Four Counties Electrical Membership Corporation

Four County Electric is another local cooperative that serves rural areas of Bladen County and beyond with reliable, affordable electric service. This cooperative has been instrumental in bringing electricity to rural areas, to homes, farms and businesses that might otherwise have been left in the dark. Their commitment to clean and efficient energy is reflected in their innovative programs promoting energy efficiency and renewable resources. Like Star Communications, Four County Electric is member-driven, meaning it is responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

Cooperatives: a model for social success

The cooperative model is built on democratic participation, in which each member has a say in the management and operation of the organization. This structure creates a strong sense of community ownership and participation, which is important for meeting local needs. Co-ops also reinvest profits back into the business and community, providing a sustainable approach to economic development.

As we celebrate Co-op Month this October, it’s a great opportunity to recognize the vital work done by local co-ops like Star Communications and Four County Electric Membership Corporation. These organizations not only provide essential services, but also strengthen the social and economic fabric of Bladen County by putting the needs of the community first.

Co-op Month reminds us of the powerful impact that co-ops have locally, nationally and globally. Their focus on people rather than profit ensures that communities remain resilient and prosperous, no matter the challenges ahead.

So this October, let’s take a moment to appreciate the co-ops that serve Bladen County and beyond. It’s more than just a business—it’s a cornerstone of community empowerment.

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