BY JULIE YOUNG

When you belong to a cooperative, you are part of an organization run and owned by its members for mutual benefit. Central to that organization are seven core principles that translate ethical values into action. The roots of the modern co-op go back to 1844, when a group of weavers in the northern English town of Rochdale formed a cooperative. That group was guided by a set of principles drafted by a member named Charles Howarth, which were introduced in the United States in 1874 during a cooperative explosion. Although the original “Rochdale Principles” have been altered and expanded, these guiding principles lie at the heart of the cooperative movement.

Voluntary and Open Membership
Cooperatives are voluntary organizations. Membership is open to all people who can reasonably use its services and are willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.

Democratic Member Control
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. Representatives (directors/trustees) are elected among the membership and are accountable to them. In primary cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote); cooperatives at other levels are organized in a democratic manner.

Members’ Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital remains the cooperative’s common property. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing the cooperative, setting up reserves, benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative, and supporting other activities approved by the membership.

Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control and their unique identity.

Education, Training, and Information
Education and training for members, elected representatives (directors/trustees), and employees help them effectively contribute to the development of their cooperatives. Communication about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly among the general public and opinion leaders, helps increase understanding of cooperatives.

Cooperation Among Cooperatives
By working together through local, national, regional, and international structures, cooperatives improve services, strengthen local economies, and address social and community needs more effectively.

Concern for Community
While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work toward the sustainable development of their communities through policies supported by their members.