Fredericksburg, Va. — Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) has been honored as the Large Business of the Year at the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce’s 110th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet on Nov. 7.

The prestigious event celebrates community achievements and recognizes businesses and individuals making a difference in Culpeper. REC stood out for its exceptional contributions to the community and unwavering commitment to service.

A nominator for the award highlighted REC’s dedication, stating: “REC exemplifies what it means to be a community-focused business. Their dedication to supporting local nonprofits is evident through the thousands of dollars in grants and donations they provide each year. Beyond financial contributions, REC sends its staff to volunteer at various community events and initiatives, further strengthening their commitment to service.”

REC supports the community in a variety of impactful ways. The cooperative takes a customer-first approach by offering flexible bill payment options to support its members’ financial stability. For employees, REC fosters growth and professional development.

REC also leads efforts in education and sustainability, delivering programs that teach businesses and individuals how to save money while adopting environmentally conscious practices. The cooperative is working to expand broadband access in rural areas, ensuring greater connectivity for underserved communities.

In addition, REC champions diversity and inclusion by encouraging young women to explore careers as line workers and pursue STEM-related fields, paving the way for a more equitable future.

Jeff Henry, REC’s Director of Member Services and Community Relations, expressed the significance of the award for the team.

“Many of our employees live right here in the Culpeper area,” he shared. “This recognition by the Chamber means so much to us, as it reflects our collective efforts to serve and support the communities we call home.”

REC provides electric service to 180,000 connections in parts of 22 Virginia counties. With its general office in Fredericksburg, Va., the Cooperative operates and maintains more than 18,000 miles of power lines through its service area, which ranges from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the tidal waters of the Chesapeake Bay. For more information about REC, please visit www.myrec.coop. Follow REC on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.