More than 5,800 members attend, helping support local hunger-relief efforts

(FARMINGTON, MN) July 28, 2025 – More than 6,000 Dakota Electric Association members and their families gathered at the Minnesota Zoo on July 21 for the cooperative’s annual Member Appreciation Event, an evening dedicated to celebrating the members who power Dakota Electric and supporting local communities.

As part of the event, members were encouraged to donate non-perishable food items and monetary contributions to benefit local food shelves. Thanks to their generosity, Dakota Electric collected over 2,4oo pounds of food and more than $1,775 in cash donations, all of which will support The Open Door and 360 Communities in their efforts to address food insecurity throughout the local area.

“Our Member Appreciation Event is one of the highlights of the year because it brings together the people who make our cooperative strong,” said Ryan Hentges, Dakota Electric President and CEO. “We’re proud to celebrate our members while supporting organizations that provide essential resources for our neighbors in need. The generosity our members show year after year continues to make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.”

As a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative, Dakota Electric hosts the annual event to thank members for their continued support and engagement. Throughout the evening, attendees enjoyed free admission to the Minnesota Zoo and its many attractions while spending time with family and friends.

For nearly three decades, Dakota Electric’s Member Appreciation Event has combined member appreciation with community giving. Since the event began in 1998, members have donated more than 47,000 pounds of food and nearly $20,000 to local hunger-relief efforts, reflecting the cooperative principle of concern for community and the generosity of Dakota Electric’s membership.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 118,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity to its members while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Threads, Bluesky, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.