Plan to attend the 3rd Annual Co-op Connection to celebrate cooperatives and all that we contribute to our communities. Area cooperatives and cooperative enthusiasts host interactive booths to share stories and educate members, employees, and the public on what we do and why it’s important to our community and the local economy. Enjoy live entertainment, kids’ activities, prize drawings and free food samples, too! Watch for details on this site as we get closer to the event!

Cooperatives are governed by seven principles:

1. Voluntary and open membership
2. Democratic member control
3. Member economic participation
4. Autonomy and independence
5. Education, training and information
6. Cooperation among cooperatives
7. Concern for community

Cooperatives can be found in nearly every sector of the economy, including financial, health care, utilities, telecommunications, insurance, agriculture and consumer goods and services. Cooperatives allow consumers to be directly involved and to support local businesses that strengthen their communities.