Cooperative Principles

Membership:

Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members.
At the spring annual meeting, members, via the petition process, elect individuals to serve as elected representatives to the Board of Directors.

Autonomy:

Cooperatives are autonomous organizations controlled by their members. If they enter into agreement with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their cooperative autonomy.

Education, Training and Information:

Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of the cooperative. They inform the general public about the nature and benefits of cooperation.

Cooperative Among Cooperatives:

Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together locally, regionally, statewide and nationally when necessary.

Concern For Community:

While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their community through policies accepted by their member.