Are you familiar with Consumers Energy? For those reading this who might not know, Consumers Energy is the company that provides gas and electricity for most people in Michigan. Thus, my family and friends in other California (and other places) have probably not heard of it, but I want to share some things about this company that have been a blessing.
First, Consumers has been the means through which my home has stayed warm in the cold winter months. In Michigan, the outdoor environment becomes an all natural ice box. I have encountered many families and college students using the snow to keep items cold rather than than their freezer (due to lack of space). Can you imagine that? So, having the heating provided by Consumers Energy indoors is the means by which my family has stayed alive when it's too cold outside!
When I studied abroad in Mexico during January of 2016, many of my college classmates and experienced numerous cold showers. While it is not necessary, it is a wonderful experience taking a hot shower. Thus, Consumers has also provided hot water and light so that I can navigate my house without bumping into things at night. No matter what part of the world or climate you're in, you know that having these wonderful things is a blessing!
Third, this company has provided my mom with a job! My mom has worked as a customer service representative for many years now, and she has had several growth opportunities. She has been able to help people as they move, buy houses, and other cool life events! Since my mom has worked there, I have learned more about safety procedures at home. For example, she has informed about the importance of having a carbon-monoxide detector because we can't smell that harmful gas. She has also showed me how patience with people is crucial (she gets many angry customers that require much patience).
More than that, Consumers Energy challenges its workers to be healthy through friendly competitions to be at a healthy weight. They also have a work out room in the facility in which my mom works, so I have gotten to use the treadmill and punching bag a few times that we have gone as a family. My mom enjoys using the work out room on her breaks so that she can get some extra movement into her day which is really nice.
Many of the things in our home have been provided through the wonderful competitions between teams at Consumers because each worker has the opportunity to sell carbon-monoxide detectors and other useful items for the home. My mom's team usually does really well (because she is also good at what she does), and we have received gift cards and other prizes (TV, bags, pens, thermoses, safety equipment for my car, etc.). It is a nice work environment for the most part.
I bet you did not know all of that happened at Consumers Energy, but it shows that the company cares about their employees and customers. In fact, there are many plans that make sure home owners/renters are receiving the services that they need to survive. I am thankful for this company (while they make mistakes every once in a while- who doesn't) that allows me to live my life.
