Cobb EMC was named Business of the Year by the Paulding Chamber of Commerce at their 60th Anniversary Awards Gala. The award seeks to recognize businesses that have significantly impacted the Paulding community during the past year. “As a cooperative, one of our guiding principles is ‘concern for community' and our employees live this every day,” said Kevan Espy, Interim President and CEO at Cobb EMC. “I am so proud of our employees that consistently step up to volunteer in the community we serve. They have a positive impact in our schools and for our members and this honor from Paulding Chamber is a reflection of that.” 

Cobb EMC employees frequently donate their time to students in Paulding County schools. These volunteer activities include reading to elementary school classrooms, participating in career fairs, hosting students for career days, participating in science fairs, and judging spelling bees. Additionally, employees volunteer for the cooperative’s mentoring program for regular lunch meetings and field trips.

“Our employees always find ways to step up and help our members by volunteering, supporting activities in schools, and aiding first responders,” said Mike Codichini, Director of Member and Public Relations at Cobb EMC. “The fact that we received this for our community and education efforts along with supporting economic development makes this particular award very special to us.”

Cobb EMC also focuses on several public safety initiatives. Each year, the cooperative hosts a Steak Out event honoring local police and law enforcement and a Five Alarm event honoring local firefighters and EMS first responders. Through the Cobb EMC Community Foundation, many grants have been provided to Paulding County 501c3 and social services organizations seeking financial support. In 2020, the Cobb EMC Community Foundation awarded the Paulding County 4-H Council $20,300 and the Paulding County Education Foundation $26,500.

The Business of the Year award is based on certain criteria set by The Paulding Chamber of Commerce. The nominations committee selects winners based on their level of dedication to making our community a better place by giving back in some manner, their support of economic development in Paulding county, and other factors.

Get more information on Cobb EMC’s community efforts at cobbemc.com/community.