Rural electric employees have community service recognized
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MANDAN - The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) recognized Lisa Mastvelton of Bottineau, a North Central Electric Cooperative (NCEC) employee, and Sonja Moe of Garrison, communications manager with McLean Electric Cooperative (MEC), with Community Service Awards at its 81st annual meeting Feb. 13 in Mandan.
The award recognizes Mastvelton's commitment to her community, which is demonstrated through her efforts to implement two charitable programs at her local electric cooperative - an employee-funded scholarship program and the Willie Wiredhand Christmas Giving Fund.
"Lisa's generosity and forward-thinking have made an impact in the lives of many, and her actions have inspired others to do the same," said NDAREC General Manager and Executive Vice President Josh Kramer. "Through her work with the Willie Wiredhand Christmas Giving Fund and NCEC's employee scholarship program, Lisa has made a lasting impact on both her community and her co-op."
The Willie Wiredhand Christmas Giving Fund has delivered holiday cheer to families in need since 2013. Over the past 11 years, the fund has raised about $40,000, providing Christmas gifts, household essentials, clothing and holiday meals to families in need. Once funded only by employees, the fund now receives additional donations from vendors, power suppliers, co-op directors and members.
Mastvelton was also instrumental in the realization of NCEC's employee-supported scholarship fund, which provides academic scholarships to area youth in memory of former NCEC employees. Thanks to Mastvelton's leadership, nearly all the co-op's employees participate in the program, helping develop future community leaders.
"I have had the great pleasure of working with Lisa for almost 20 years at NCEC," said Jon Beyer, general manager, NCEC. "Day in and day out, Lisa exemplifies the cooperative principle of concern for community. Her commitment to not only the members of NCEC but to the communities our cooperative serves is inspiring."
Moe has served as a youth leader at her church and volunteered at local food pantries. She's also promoted economic development and community vitality through her involvement in the Garrison Area Improvement Association and the Turtle Lake and Garrison Chambers of Commerce.
"Sonja's drive to improve her community is admirable. Her efforts to promote community health and economic prosperity in McLean County have made an impact in the lives of many," Kramer said.
As the president of the Garrison Chamber of Commerce, Moe represented the interests of Garrison's business community. In this role, she ensured open and transparent communication, providing information on upcoming projects, seeking feedback and addressing concerns. This fostered a sense of trust and collaboration and resulted in community betterment, empowering residents and improving quality of life.
Moe also serves on the Garrison Food Pantry's board of directors. As the food pantry's treasurer, Moe conducted a comprehensive assessment of community needs, developed a strategic plan and mobilized resources. She secured grants, organized volunteers and coordinated efforts to address hunger issues.
"Sonja is very community-minded and is always looking for ways to better the communities MEC serves. Whether through participation in the Chamber, volunteering at local food banks, pioneering events or participating in programs, she's always willing to help," MEC General Manager Mark Doyle said.