Co-operative Associations

Co-operative associations are organizations owned and operated by their members, who share common needs or goals. Members contribute resources or buy products/services together to gain benefits like lower costs or better quality. Profits are typically reinvested or shared among members. Examples include grocery co-ops, housing co-ops, or agricultural co-operatives. They emphasize democratic control, meaning each member has a say, regardless of how much they contribute, fostering a sense of shared ownership and community participation. Co-operatives aim to serve their members’ interests rather than maximize profit for outsiders.