National Co-op Month

October is National Co-op Month, making this is the perfect time to reflect on the seven cooperative principles that reflect our core values of honesty, transparency, equity, inclusiveness and service to the greater community good.

  1. Open and Voluntary Membership: Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.

  2. Democratic Member Control: Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. The elected representatives are accountable to the membership.

  3. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.

  4. Education, Training, and Information: Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives. They inform the general public about
    the nature and benefits of cooperation.

  5. Autonomy and Independence: Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.

  6. Members’ Economic Participation: Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.

  7. Concern for Community: While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities.