The Seven Co-op Principles
The Seven Co-operative Principles are enshrined in Co-operative law and guide co-operative enterprise all over the world. In solidarity with our clients, we put these principles into our practice.
01
Voluntary and Open Membership
Co-operatives are equitable organizations, open to all persons able to benefit from their services and willing to accept the responsibility of membership. Community and Co-operative Counsel work with organizations to design responsible and practical co-operative governance systems for their unique circumstances.
03
Member Economic Participation
Members contribute to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative. Surplus, or profits, is directed to the benefit of members. Community and Co-operative Counsel work with clients to find innovative ways to legally raise community capital through co-operative and social enterprise.
05
Education, Training and Information
Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, management and employees to contribute to development of the co-operative. We work with co-operative associations and non-profits to provide educational programming for co-operatives and the public.
02
Democratic Member Control
Co-operatives are voluntary democratic oranizations controlled by their members, who actively participate and make decisions. Community and Co-operative Counsel assist co-operatives and social enterprise to strengthen democratic governance within their legal structures, and enhance member relations.
04
Autonomy and Independence
Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members. Community and Co-operative Counsel are proudly independent and autonomous lawyers that work with clients to ensure they can maintain their autonomy, independence, and grow their operations.
06
Co-operation among Co-operatives
Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together. Community and Co-operative Counsel work with co-operatives and co-operative associations at the provincial and national level to develop opportunities for co-operatives to collaborate, and to share best practices for co-operatives and social enterprises.
07
Concern for Community
Co-operatives work for the sustainable development of their communities. Community and Co-operative Counsel work with co-operatives and public entities to open doors for co-operatives to more efficiently serve their members and communities.