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Walking the Walk
    A special editorial by Greg Mullis

>> The electric cooperative is special because of the unique set of principles that guide the way we do business. But it is the people that make an electric cooperative successful. From the employees and directors to the members and local citizens who volunteer to make our programs a success, cooperatives are all about people working to make their community a better place. A new feature to Current Lines "Walking the Walk" will seek to illustrate how the people of Tri-County are fulfilling the cooperative spirit. 

The focus of our first "Walking the Walk" is on Margaret Morris, communications specialist for Tri-County and the editor of Current Lines.  In addition to spearheading corporate communications for employees, members and the public, Margaret embodies the principle of concern for community through her efforts in youth programs, Operation Roundup, home builders associations and Relay for Life. (21237-01)          

As the coordinator for Tri-County EMC's Relay for Life team, Margaret has given willingly of her free time, including Saturdays and evenings, to put together car washes, bake sales, and many other fund raisers. According to Relay for Life team member Tammie Malone, a customer service representative for Tri-County and Relay for Life Team member, "I admire Margaret and her constant dedication and involvement in our community. She is a very hard worker, and she gives everything she does one hundred percent effort. So many take for granted the work and time she spends on Relay for Life and other community activities." The 2005 Relay for Life Team raised $2,157 to help fight cancer.

Operation Roundup has been a tremendous success for Tri-County EMC, with nearly $400,000 raised through voluntary contributions. While others usually appeared in the press releases and photos of check presentations, it was Margaret who was holding the camera and organizing the meetings.  From collecting and preparing applications to speaking with civic groups about the Foundation, Margaret provides the majority of the work behind the administration of the program.

Margaret has also given of her time and talents outside of Tri-County EMC. Over the last few years, she has served with distinction on the board of directors for the Home Builders' Association of Macon.  Most recently, Margaret was instrumental in the organization of a Gray/Jones County chapter to support the growing residential construction industry in Jones County. "Margaret is one of those people who will come forward and help with whatever needs to be done," says Rachel Spires, executive officer for the Home Builders Association of Middle Georgia. "She has won the prestigious Associate of the Year and President's award for her contributions.  Margaret serves willingly and professionally in everything she does."

Servant leadership is a vital ingredient to making a good organization great. Certainly, Margaret Morris has embodied the spirit of the cooperative through her community efforts, and we recognize the result of her giving nature and hard work. Thanks Margaret for all that you do. <<