About Co-operative Living

What is a housing co-op?

A housing co-op allows members and their families to live in units, which they co-operatively own. Housing co-ops are formed when people join together on a democratic basis to own or control the buildings in which they live. Most mid to large-sized cities in Ontario have housing co-ops operating in them and providing housing to residents.

The Seven Co-operative Principles

Although co-operatives can operate in many different sectors and either as a for-profit or not-for-profit enterprise, there is one thing that every co-op has in common. Co-ops around the world are organized according to the seven international principles of co-operation.

1. Voluntary and open membership

2. Democratic member control

3. Member economic participation

4. Autonomy and independence

5. Education, training and information

6. Co-operation among co-operatives

7. Concern for community

For more information, contact The Ontario Co-operative Association at www.ontario.coop/toolkit.