Piedmont Electric Cooperative celebrated National Cooperative Month by putting the cooperative spirit into action, partnering with Orange County Habitat for Humanity for a team-building volunteer day on October 30 at the Weavers Grove development in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Employees rolled up their sleeves for a day of service, working alongside Habitat volunteers to help frame homes that will provide affordable housing for local families. The hands-on experience offered employees an opportunity to step outside their everyday roles, strengthen relationships with colleagues and make a tangible difference in the community they serve.
“For Piedmont Electric, this project embodies the seventh cooperative principle, Concern for Community. While our primary mission is to provide safe, reliable electricity, our commitment extends well beyond the power lines through meaningful community partnerships and investments that improve the lives of those we serve,” said Sarah Bohlin, vice president of Corporate Services at Piedmont Electric.
Weavers Grove is a mixed-income housing development designed to expand access to affordable homeownership in Orange County, where rising housing costs have created challenges for many working families. Through partnerships with local organizations and dedicated volunteers, Habitat for Humanity is helping make the dream of homeownership a reality for more families.
“It’s rewarding to know that the work we put in today will help a family build a future here in our community,” said Jodi Fargis, Member Services Representative at Piedmont Electric. “Being able to work alongside my coworkers for a cause like this makes the experience even more meaningful.”
The volunteer day was a fitting way to recognize National Cooperative Month, celebrating the people-first values that distinguish cooperatives and their commitment to strengthening the communities they serve.