Co-operative Living

Co-operative Housing: More Than a Home – CHF Canada

Co-operatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, co-operative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility, and caring for others.

Co-operative Principles

The 7 co-operative principles are guidelines by which co-operatives put their values into practice.

  1. Voluntary and Open Membership – Membership in a housing co-op is open to all who can use the co-op’s services and accept the responsibilities of being a member, without discrimination.
  2. Democratic Member Control – Housing co-ops are controlled by their members. Each member has one vote. Housing co-ops give members the information they need to make good decisions and take part in the life of the co-op.
  3. Members’ Economic Participation – Members contribute financially to the co-op and share in the benefits of membership. The co-op does not pay a return on the members’ shares or deposits. Instead, it sets aside reserves for the future and charges the members-only what it needs to operate soundly.
  4. Autonomy and Independence – Housing co-ops are independent associations. They follow the laws that apply to them and their agreements with governments or other organizations. But the members control the co-op.
  5. Education, Training, and Information – Housing co-ops offer education and training to the members, directors, and staff so that everyone can play a full role in the life of the co-op. Housing co-ops find ways to tell the public what they are and what they do.
  6. Co-operation Among Co-operatives – By organizing together in federations, housing co-ops grow stronger and help to build a healthy co-op movement. Where they can, housing co-ops use the services of co-op businesses to meet their needs.
  7. Concern for Community – Housing co-ops work to build strong communities inside and outside the co-op. They help to improve the quality of life for others and they take care to protect the environment.