As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, it's a fitting time to recognize the values that have strengthened our nation for generations. This year is especially meaningful because the International Day of Cooperatives happens to also fall on July 4, creating a unique opportunity to celebrate both America's independence and the cooperative spirit on the same day!

Cooperatives reflect many of the same principles on which America was founded: people voluntarily coming together, sharing responsibility, and working toward a common goal. The International Day of Cooperatives is celebrated each year on the first Saturday of July to raise awareness of the important contributions cooperatives make to sustainable development, strong communities, and peace around the world.

Much like the original states united to form a stronger nation while maintaining their individual identities, cooperative members join together to accomplish more collectively than they could alone. Both systems are rooted in democratic participation, local control, and the belief that every voice matters.

A defining feature of cooperatives is the principle of "one member, one vote," ensuring that every member has an equal voice regardless of financial investment. This reflects the democratic ideals that have guided the United States for 250 years.

Today, cooperatives continue to play a vital role across America—from helping farmers reach markets and providing financial services through credit unions to delivering electricity to rural communities. They demonstrate that democracy is not only a form of government but also a powerful way to build strong local economies and resilient communities.

Did You Know?

Nearly 1 in 3 Americans belongs to a credit union, one of the nation's most common cooperative models.

Rural electric cooperatives serve millions of Americans and cover more than half of the nation's land area.

Many rural communities received electricity through cooperatives because private utilities considered those areas too costly to serve.

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, cooperatives remain a powerful example of what can be accomplished when people work together, share ownership, and invest in a common future!

Happy Independence Day!

AND

Happy International Day of Cooperatives!