As a cooperative, one of our core values is caring for our community. This commitment drives everything we do, both inside our organization and throughout the communities we serve. As the holiday season charges up, LPEA is dedicated to spreading joy and making a positive impact in the lives of our members. Here’s a look at how we’re lighting up the community this fall and winter!
Our Annual In-House Blood Drive
During Cooperative Month in October, LPEA employees host an in-house blood drive, showing what it truly means to be a cooperative. This year’s drive is extra spooky, taking place on Halloween! One pint of donated blood can save up to three lives—now that’s electrifying! Our team loves plugging into opportunities that make a meaningful difference, and this employee event is always a highlight of the year.
“You Little Filler You” Employee Food Drive
The holiday season kicks off with the annual “You Little Filler You” food drive, an internal competition where LPEA employees collect non-perishable food items throughout November. All donations will support local food banks and provide crucial support for families during the holidays. At the end of the drive, these items will be delivered as part of the larger IBEW Fill the Bucket Food Drive, a community service event where we come together to uplift our membership.
IBEW Fill the Bucket Food Drive
LPEA teams up with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) each November to support local food banks. Last year, we were able to collect over 5,000 pounds of food and nearly $3,000 in donations for families in need. This year, we’re hoping to make an even bigger impact with our drives happening in Durango on November 16 at Albertsons and Pagosa Springs on November 23 at City Market and Natural Grocers. Both drives are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Together, we can ensure that no family goes hungry this holiday season.
Santa’s Helping Hands: Spreading Holiday Cheer
As we move into December, LPEA employees take part in the Santa’s Helping Hands program by contributing a portion of their paychecks to spread holiday cheer. This year, our efforts will go toward the Shop with a Cop initiative, ensuring that local kids have an extra joyful Holiday Season. Since 2020, 110 employees have contributed $5,385, proving that the power of giving is truly energizing.
The LPEA Giving Tree Program: Helping Neighbors in Need
Started by LPEA Member Service Representatives in 2017, the LPEA Giving Tree Program helps our members who struggle to keep their lights on during the winter months. Last year, thanks to the generosity of our members and employees, we helped keep 527 homes warm and bright. You can join us in helping others by donating between November 25, 2024, and January 31, 2025, via Venmo (@GivingTree_LPEA), over the phone, at our drive-through lanes, or in person at our offices. Every contribution helps a neighbor in need stay warm this winter.
Festival of Trees
The Festival of Trees is one of our favorite holiday traditions. LPEA employees get festive by decorating a pre-lit tree and placing wrapped gifts underneath, all for a good cause. This event supports Community Connections, a local organization dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities and children facing serious illnesses. You can join in the fun by attending the 21st Annual Festival of Trees & Wreaths from December 6–8 at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, or participate in the online auction to bid on beautiful wreaths and decorations.
At LPEA, we believe that the holiday season is a time to give back and support our community in every way possible. Whether it's through blood drives, food donations, or keeping homes warm, we're proud to do our part in lighting up lives across our service territory this season.
Together, we can make this holiday season a little brighter for everyone!