October is National Co-op Month, an opportunity to recognize the unique value cooperatives bring to the communities they serve. Chariton Valley Telephone Cooperative is proud to operate as a cooperative, putting our members first and building stronger connections rooted in trust, innovation and shared success. The 2025 theme, Cooperatives Build a Better World, highlights the transformative power of the cooperative model, and we are honored to play a role in that vision.
This year, National Co-op Month coincides with the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), with both sharing the theme Cooperatives Build a Better World. While National Co-op Month is an annual U.S. observance each October, IYC is a year-long global recognition that has been declared twice (2012 and 2025), highlighting the broader impact of cooperatives locally and around the world.
What Makes Cooperatives Special
Unlike traditional companies, cooperatives are owned by the members they serve. This means decisions are made with the customer in mind, ensuring value and benefits stay within the community. National Co-op Month shines a spotlight on the positive impact co-ops have across the country, from supporting local economies to providing essential services like broadband internet.
The Seven Cooperative Principles
The cooperative model is guided by seven principles that serve as the foundation for every cooperative.
- Voluntary and Open Membership
- Democratic Member Control
- Member Economic Participation
- Autonomy and Independence
- Education, Training and Information
- Cooperation Among Cooperatives
- Concern for Community
These principles ensure cooperatives remain rooted in fairness, equality and community well-being.
Chariton Valley Telephone Cooperative’s Core Values
Our cooperative spirit is shaped by not only these principles but also our five core values:
- Customer-Focused: Our members are at the heart of everything we do. From providing fast, reliable fiber internet* to offering local, personalized service, we are dedicated to delivering the best experience possible.
- Integrity: We operate with honesty and transparency, ensuring our customers can always count on us for trustworthy service and dependable support.
- Influential: As a cooperative, we strive to make a positive impact in our communities, helping to build a stronger, more connected future for rural Missouri.
- Quality: We take pride in delivering high-quality services, from crystal-clear connections to responsive customer care. Our commitment to excellence ensures our members receive outstanding service and support.
- Innovation: Technology is always evolving, and so are we. By embracing forward-thinking solutions, we ensure our members have access to the latest advancements in connectivity.
The Co-op Spirit in Action
National Co-op Month is more than a moment to reflect—it’s a chance to honor the ongoing impact of cooperative efforts. The 2025 theme, Cooperatives Build a Better World, reflects the commitment Chariton Valley Telephone Cooperative has to fostering growth, connection and vitality in our communities. By putting the seven cooperative principles into practice and embodying our core values, we work every day to make a meaningful difference for the people and places we serve.
We’re not just building connections—we’re building community. Contact us to learn more about the cooperative difference.
*Not available in all areas. Contact us for complete details.
