HOW DO CO-OPS WORK?

Co-op living is unique in that it allows for its members to determine how their community will operate.

Democratic management is the lifeblood of a healthy co-op and many people who live in the co-op, are voting members. The members elect a board of directors from among themselves and authorize the board to conduct the day to day business of the co-operative in a manner that satisfies all of the requirements of its charter, Co-operative Corporations Act, bylaws, agreements, and policies.

All members in a co-operative share in the advantages and responsibilities of co-op life, which makes it more than just a place to live.

MEMBERS RIGHTS

Members have a right to:

  • Right #1

    Vote on the annual budget, which sets the monthly housing charges

  • Right #2

    Elect a board of directors made up of people who live in your co‑op

  • Right #3

    Run for the board of directors yourself

  • Right #4

    Receive audited financial statements that show how the co‑op spent your money

  • Right #5

    Pay only a limited portion of your income for your housing, if you meet eligibility rules

  • Right #6

    Live there for as long as you like, if you keep to the by-laws agreed on by the co‑op membership

VIDEO INFO

OUR AFFILIATIONS

The Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada) is the organized voice of the Canadian co-operative housing movement. Founded in 1968 and registered as a non-profit co-operative association under the Canada Co-operatives Act, CHF Canada exists to unite, represent and serve the community of housing co-operatives across Canada and member organizations that support their operation and development. CHF Canada works actively for the growth, stability and independence of the co-operative movement and promote the practice of co-operation in Canada and abroad.

The Co-operative Housing Association of Eastern Ontario (CHASEO) is a co-operation of co-ops. Its members are housing co-ops in the Eastern Ontario region, co-op staff associations and sector-related organizations. Through their association, members have a collective voice in Eastern Ontario to represent their interests with government, agencies and other groups. CHASEO also provides ongoing support to housing co-ops and is a local source of resources, expertise and training. A wide range of services are available to members and non-members alike. Members also have access to a selection of continuously expanding cost-saving programs. CHASEO is one of 17 regional co-op housing federations in Canada. It is an active member of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada (CHF Canada).