Haywood EMC, along with Electric Cooperatives across the country, operates according to the 7 Cooperative principles. Each principle is a key reason that cooperatives operate differently from other electric utilities, putting the needs of their members first.

This month, Haywood EMC wants to share more about the first cooperative principle: Open and Voluntary Membership. This means that membership in a cooperative is open to all people who can use its services and stand willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.