In the fall of 2024, western North Carolina was struck by one of the worst natural disasters the region had ever seen when Hurricane Helene made landfall, bringing historic flooding and causing unprecedented damage.

The impact of this event will never be forgotten — but just as lasting is the memory of how individuals, co-op employees and affiliate organizations came together in the face of hardship to support affected communities and demonstrate the cooperative principle of concern for community.

Established in 2005, the Human Connection Fund gives employees of North Carolina’s electric cooperatives and co-op affiliated organizations the opportunity to join together and help sister cooperatives and their communities when disaster strikes – whether near or far.

“Being a part of the Human Connections Fund has always been meaningful, knowing it was helping others,” said Jeff Brittain, general manager of Rutherford EMC. “But when that support reaches people right here at home, it takes on an even deeper significance.”

The fund was activated just days after Hurricane Helene hit western North Carolina and raised a record-setting amount of $300,000 in contributions from more than 200 individuals, co-op employees and businesses from 20 states.

“We are thankful to all of the cooperatives and cooperative employees across the state who gave to this great cause,” said Tom Batchelor, CEO of Haywood Electric Membership Corporation (EMC).

The money raised directly supported the recovery needs of co-op employees who – despite experiencing their own devastation from Helene – continued to work to serve their co-ops and communities. Additional funds were donated to local non-profits and community organizations across western North Carolina on behalf of Blue Ridge Energy, French Broad EMC, Haywood EMC and Rutherford EMC – four electric cooperatives whose communities suffered some of the worst damage from Helene.

“Through these generous donations, we are able to support these organizations that have contributed so much to the recovery efforts that began immediately following the storm,” Batchelor said. “Since day one, these organizations have provided temporary shelter, rebuilt damaged homes, built brand-new homes, served countless meals and much more to our neighbors in need.”

Although significant progress has been made, continued support is essential to sustaining recovery efforts and addressing ongoing needs.

“We are so proud to be part of a cooperative family that truly cares about our employees and neighbors,” said Brittain. “Living and working in this community, we see firsthand that recovery is still a long way off for many. With so many needs remaining, we want to continue doing all we can to support those in need.”

This collective effort of co-op employees and affiliated businesses is a true testament to the cooperative spirit and the cooperatives’ commitment to support Western North Carolina in moving forward with strength and resilience.