PROGRESS THROUGH PRINCIPLES The NRECA fosters innovation among their member cooperatives through technology and energy advancements— improving quality of life and further developing cooperatives to offer better solutions. These innovations also foster a shared sense of purpose to look abroad and utilize the co-op model to assist other countries in electrifying their rural areas—bringing the cooperative idea full circle. To this day, their mission continues as NRECA International makes strides toward growth, sustainability, and prosperity in the developing indigenous electrification institutions. NRECA International works in 16 countries outside of the United States spanning across Latin America, Asia, and Africa. For over 50 years, the NRECA has been considered a global ambassador for the cooperative business model. As a leader in energy innovation with safety in the forefront, we can be sure that the NRECA will stay engaged in progressing technology, the use of energy, the development of cooperatives, and resources for our communities—illuminating the globe. T H E S E V E N COOPERATIVE P R I N C I P L E S Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital remains the common property of the cooperative. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing the cooperative; setting up reserves; benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership. MEMBERS’ ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION Membership in a cooperative is open to all persons who can reasonably use its services and stand willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances. OPEN AND VOLUNTARY MEMBERSHIP Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by the membership. CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control as well as their unique identity. AUTONOMY AND INDEPENDENCE Education and training for members, elected representatives (directors/trustees), CEOs, and employees help them effectively contribute to the development of their cooperatives. Communications about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly with the general public and opinion leaders, help boost cooperative understanding. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND INFORMATION Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. Elected representatives (directors/ trustees) are elected from among the membership and are accountable to the membership. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote); cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner. DEMOCRATIC MEMBER CONTROL Source: NRECA, Understanding the Seven Cooperative Principles. By working together through local, national, regional, and international structures, cooperatives improve services, bolster local economies, and deal more effectively with social and community needs. COOPERATION AMONG COOPERATIVES F O U R F I V E