On May 8, 1940, Tri-County EMC was chartered at a time when electricity was virtually nonexistent in our service area. While major cities enjoyed the benefits of electrification, rural communities were often overlooked. Without a mandate to provide electricity to these areas, communities like ours had to fend for themselves. It's hard to believe that in the 1930s, nearly 90 percent of rural residents lived and worked without electricity. Fortunately, farmers and rural residents had a longstanding history of overcoming challenges, but securing electricity was a different hurdle altogether. Like many cooperatives formed by farmers during that time, Tri-County EMC began as a long shot. However, the perseverance and determination of our founders, who successfully recruited their neighbors to pay the $5 membership fee and join what was then known as the REA, is truly inspiring. The Rural Electrification Administration (REA), created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1935, supported local efforts to bring electricity to rural areas.
Today, Tri-County EMC stands as a testament to that early vision. We are proud to join 831 other electric cooperatives that together power 56% of the landmass of the United States. These cooperatives energize more than 22 million homes, businesses, farms, and schools. Approximately 42 million people nationwide receive their electricity from electric cooperatives, which consistently rank highest in customer satisfaction.
For over 85 years, Tri-County EMC has stood as a pillar of strength and reliability within our community. As I approach the milestone of nearly 50 years with this electric cooperative, I reflect on the journey that has shaped my experience. Throughout my tenure, the cooperative's steadfast mission has remained a guiding light, in its commitment to serve our members. I have witnessed remarkable growth and transformation, especially in the realm of technology, which has evolved to enhance our services and connect us more deeply with the people we serve.
The cooperative has worked tirelessly to not only provide electricity to its members but also to empower them with resources and educational programs to make informed decisions about their energy usage. We have been strong advocates for energy efficiency and sustainability, implementing programs and initiatives that help our members reduce their carbon footprint and lower their energy costs.
As Tri-County EMC looks to the future, we remain dedicated to providing exceptional service to our members and the communities we serve. As we commemorate 85 years of service, we honor the founding members of Tri-County EMC. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to those visionary founders whose courage laid the groundwork for a brighter future. We are proud to carry the torch, continuing their promise to provide our community with reliable, safe, and affordable energy that powers our lives and futures.
Happy 85th Anniversary, Tri-County EMC! Here’s to many more years of powering homes, businesses, and progress!