Co-operatives are founded on a common idea that people, no matter what economic class or educational level, know what's best for themselves. People can work together to meet their own needs.
That's great, but it only works if people participate. Maybe one of these benefits will appeal to you?
- Co-ops help people obtain goods and services that they may not otherwise be able to afford on their own. Our expected advertising reach is one example. Our accommodation booking services are another.
- Because co-ops are open to everyone regardless of income or social status, and each member has an equal vote, co-ops can be more accountable and inclusive than other enterprises.
- Co-ops help build stronger communities. Since most co-ops are community and regionally based, investment in, and surplus revenue from, the co-op stay within the local community. Every dollar invested in the local co-op, has a significant multiplier effect within the community.
- Co-operatives enable communities to have a degree of self-determination that is less subject to outside forces. Community based ownership also make co-ops less vulnerable to takeovers and closures by outside decision-makers.
- Co-ops are more stable and durable than private businesses. The survival rate of co-ops after 5 years is 64% as compared to 36% for private firms. After 10 years, the survival rate of co-ops is 46% compared to 20% for private firms.
We've only just begun the process of organizing as a co-operative. As you'll soon see, this is the most important time to get involved.
