It makes sound sense for small organic farmers and growers to pool
resources and achieve economies of scale. In doing so, farmers can
expand the markets they reach, and consumers are offered local, organic
produce which they could otherwise not access.
As a co-op we follow seven international Co-operative Principles...
1st PRINCIPLE: VOLUNTARY AND OPEN MEMBERSHIP
Co-operatives are voluntary organisations, open to all persons able to
use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of
membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious
discrimination.
2nd PRINCIPLE: DEMOCRATIC MEMBER CONTROL
Co-operatives are democratic organisations controlled by their members,
who actively participate in setting their policies and making
decisions. Men and women serving as elected representatives are
accountable to the membership. In primary co-operatives members have
equal voting rights (one member, one vote) and co-operatives at other
levels are organised in a democratic manner.
3rd PRINCIPLE: MEMBER ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the
capital of their co-operative. At least part of that capital is usually
the common property of the co-operative. They usually receive limited
compensation, if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of
membership. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following
purposes: developing the co-operative, possibly by setting up reserves,
part of which at least would be indivisible; benefiting members in
proportion to their transactions with the co-operative; and supporting
other activities approved by the membership.
4th PRINCIPLE: AUTONOMY AND INDEPENDENCE
Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organisations controlled by
their members. If they enter into agreements with other organisations,
including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do
so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and
maintain their co-operative autonomy.
5th PRINCIPLE: EDUCATION, TRAINING AND INFORMATION
Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected
representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute
effectively to the development of their co-operatives. They inform the
general public — particularly young people and opinion leaders — about
the nature and benefits of co-operation.
6th PRINCIPLE: CO-OPERATION AMONG CO-OPERATIVES
Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the
co-operative movement by working together through local, national,
regional, and international structures.
7th PRINCIPLE: CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY
While focusing on member needs, co-operatives work for the sustainable
development of their communities through policies accepted by their
members.
