Cooperative Heroes Award

(F.K.A Touchstone Energy Community Award)

Do you know someone in your community who consistently goes above and beyond to make life better for others? Perhaps they’ve supported a local nonprofit, helped neighbors in need, or organized a project that made a lasting impact. These are the kinds of people who make our towns stronger, and now is the time to recognize their efforts.

Itasca-Mantrap is proud to partner with Minnesota’s Touchstone Energy cooperatives to introduce the Cooperative Heroes Award. While the Touchstone Energy Community Award continues to celebrate outstanding local 
organizations and businesses, the Cooperative Heroes Award focuses on individuals who put cooperative values into action every day.

Minnesota is home to 44 electric distribution cooperatives, serving 85 percent of the state and touching every county. This award highlights the cooperative principles that bind us together: integrity, accountability, innovation, reliability and commitment to community. Judges will evaluate nominees for these qualities as they select three winners who have shown what it means to live cooperatively.

Winners will receive funding to support a cause or nonprofit of their choice:

First place: $1,000

Second and third place: $500 each

Nominations are open through Nov. 15, and the application process is short and simple. You can find the form online at www.mrea.org/programs/touchstone-energy.

Together, let’s shine a light on the community heroes whose dedication has touched lives and inspired positive change.

2022 Touchstone Energy Award winners: Friends of the Park Rapids Library Pictured (L-R): Sandy Drury, Jill Johnson, Pat Mickelson, Annamae Holzworth, Diane Thoelke, Christine Bettendorf, Diane
George, Deb Massey, Janet Dixon, and Nikki Torkelson (I-M Marketing/Member Services Manager).