The Co-op You Can Count On

Poudre Valley REA

2 days ago

After nearly two weeks in Guatemala, Roman, lineman here at PVREA, can look back at a mountainside and see something that wasn't there before.

Each morning, crews work to bring electricity to communities that have lived without it for generations. They've dug holes, framed poles, strung wire, and wired homes. So far, about 90 homes have been connected, bringing first-time electric service within reach.

For Roman, one of the most rewarding parts has been seeing what a few lights and outlets will mean to the people who live here.

"Each house is getting four lights, two outlets, and two switches – and that’s life changing for these people. It’s just so humbling going to their homes, where they take so much pride. Back home, we take so much for granted."

The work is demanding, but the results are impossible to miss.

"Our first span of wire that we put up, it was long... We worked our butts off to get that up. Just stringing out all the wire and getting it all up, and then at the end of the day after it’s all up, you’re driving down like, 'man, none of this was up before, we put all this up.'"

The crews have also formed strong bonds along the way.

"I’m missing my family terribly. Honestly, what keeps me pushing through is just the guys we have here. I mean nobody has any quit in them. We all just keep grinding for each other. It’s kind of a brotherhood already you know."

Alongside tools and equipment, the team carries backpacks full of toys to share with local children.

"I think back to my kids, they have everything they could ever dream of. And then you go give something even as small as a toy car to these kids and they’re just ecstatic."

Between the mountain roads, coffee plants, and communities welcoming them each day, the experience is leaving a lasting impression.

"Everyone is just outside and excited to see us and wave to us. It’s all buenos días and buenas noches."

Someday, these power lines will no longer stand out. They'll simply be part of everyday life for the families they serve. What won't be forgotten are the people who made it happen: the linemen, the local residents, the translators, and everyone who came together to bring electricity to these communities.

Roman has helped leave something lasting on this mountainside, and in return he'll carry something lasting home: memories of the people, the brotherhood, and a firsthand reminder of what happens when cooperatives answer the call to serve.

This story is just one part of a much larger effort. Follow NRECA International and Colorado Rural Electric Association to see more of the people, partnerships, and impact behind this project. ... See MoreSee Less