Ridenour's efforts were critical to the development of the Web based selection clearinghouse Sites Across America and the Touchstone Energy Cooperative Balloon Program. Tuttle's success resulted in the co-op's continuing sponsorship of the Town Square Community Portal, which gives citizens access to a variety of information.

Beaver implemented the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) as one of the nine performance objectives tied to an annual employee performance bonus at his co-op that has improved both member and employee satisfaction. Vigesaa listened to his ND community when they approached with "an idea" that seemed out of reach and solicited support from other co-ops across the region to build the Touchstone Energy Playland, both an enjoyable and educational energy experience, in a large area mall.

Under Schaefer's leadership his smaller co-op has recruited more than 60 local merchants to participate in the Co-op Connections program supporting both the local community and the membership.

Touchstone Energy's success is attributed to individuals such as these award winners who truly live the "power of human connections."