PPCS Members Demonstrate Concern for Community at Member Appreciation Event

Every October, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services hosts a member appreciation event to celebrate National Cooperative Month.  Like many other organizations, PPCS had to change their normal format this year due to concerns surrounding COVID-19 and members’ safety.

The cooperative hosted a drive-thru event that allowed members to stay in their vehicles while participating in a food drive for the local food pantry, a children’s winter clothing drive, and a best face mask contest.  About 110 vehicles drove through the garages in both PPCS buildings. 

PPCS members truly demonstrated the seventh cooperative principle, concern for community, by donating 206 pounds of non-perishable food and $279 dollars for the Pierce County Food Shelf.  They also donated winter clothing and $275 for Basics for Local Kids. 

One of the highlights, at least for the PPCS employees, was the fantastic masks worn by members.  It brought a lot of fun to the event.  Members were sent home with a small gift and picnic supper.

“We weren’t sure how the event would turn out,” said Nate Boettcher, PPCS president and CEO, “but we were really pleased to see the number of people who came out and participated.  Being able to engage with our members, even if it has to be at a distance, is the best part of being a cooperative.”