CHELCO CEO Recognized for International Efforts

March 1, 2018

DeFuniak Springs, Fla – The CEO of a Florida electric cooperative was recognized Tuesday for his contribution to international development. Steve Rhodes, CEO of CHELCO received the 2018 International Award from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

The International Award recognizes exceptional dedication to the development of international communities through electrification, cooperative development and global commitment.

“Steve is well-known for his relentless effort to raise awareness about the need to help bring electricity to those around the world who live without it,” said NRECA President Phil Carson.

Rhodes accepted the award with his wife Tami and daughter Samantha. In 2016, they climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, and used this feat to raise awareness for the millions of people still living without power on the African continent, and to raise funds for NRECA International. The awareness and fund-raising outreach continued upon their return at various local and co-op events.

The NRECA is the national service organization that represents the nation’s more than 900 not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric cooperatives, which provide service to 42 million people in 47 states.

CHELCO is a not-for-profit, member owned electric distribution cooperative serving more than 50,000 accounts in Walton, Okaloosa, Holmes and Santa Rosa counties.