When you open your fridge, look at the milk. Odds are good—85%—that it came from a farmer-owned dairy cooperative. One of every three Americans has an account at a cooperatively owned credit union. If you shop at Ace Hardware, that’s a co-op.

There are plenty of co-ops, at least 30,000 in America and 3 million worldwide. Some co-ops are owned by workers or farmers, and others are owned by businesses that pool resources. You—and everyone else we serve in our co-op exchanges—own Polar.

Co-ops make life better for everyone, from local businesses to those who get broadband Internet access from us. As we celebrate National Co-op Month, let’s talk about how keeping life cooperative strengthens our community.

working together works

Co-ops are special. We’re not just a company, and you’re not just a customer. We’re in this together. Our 6,115 members—that’s you—elect our leaders and help guide our future. It’s a big community project where everyone has a say. We hope you’ll join us at our next member meeting in June 2025. It’s the best way to discover what’s happening and get involved with your co-op.

your ideas make us better

Life never stands still. Your ideas help us innovate to meet changing local needs. Whether you send us an email or talk to us at a local event, we’re all ears. Your thoughts help us grow and serve you better.

we’re here to serve you

Remember, you’re not a number to us. You’re a member-owner. That means we work for you, not some far-off shareholders. We’re focused on what’s best for our community because we live here, too.

locally grown for community growth

We provide Internet and phone services, but our co-op is about more than that. We connect people and businesses to possibilities.

As a member of Polar, you support local jobs, scholarships, and more. We put our money where our heart is—right here at home. We do more than provide a service; we help our neighborhoods thrive.

In 2024, we’ve donated $105,682 to trusted community groups and organizations. College scholarships from your co-op are helping fifteen students attend school this fall. We also work with local chambers of commerce to encourage businesses to invest in our community.

When we work together and keep it cooperative, we all win.

why keep it cooperative?

Cooperation works. It keeps us connected, innovative, and focused on what matters—you and our community. Thanks for being part of our Polar family. Together, let’s keep life cooperative and make life better for our community.