By Piper Wood, board president
Recently, we gathered for the first session of our four part series, “Principles in Practice: A Conversation Series on Cooperatives & Community,” to talk about co-ops of many shapes and sizes that help our community thrive. Our panel included representatives from cooperatives across the region, from a two-person worker-owned cooperative to a credit union serving nearly 50,000 members. While our panelists’ experiences were diverse, they shared a common thread: a deep connection to their members, and a commitment to democratic control of their cooperative. Thanks to all who joined us for this discussion! On Tuesday, Dec 2, we will gather again at the Pulpit Rock Brewing Company Event Room for session two, focusing on cooperative principles three and four:
- Member Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.
- Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.
Principles in Practice: Cooperative Participation and Independence
Tuesday, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m.
Pulpit Rock Brewing Company Event Room
In conversation with local cooperatives, including Hometown Taxi and the Oneota Community Food Cooperative, we will explore the ways in which cooperatives keep dollars and infrastructure local and in the hands of their members. Cooperatives present an alternative approach to systems that we rely on, whether it’s an alternative to working structures for members of worker-owned cooperatives, or an increased purchasing power among families in a buying club (the very origins of our Oneota Community Food Cooperative). As co-ops grow, members benefit, and also play a key role in determining how surpluses and upgrades are decided upon. Together, we will hear stories from members of cooperatives in Northeast Iowa about why they choose to work cooperatively, and what cooperative independence (and often, interdependence) looks like in practice.
Why are we hosting Principles in Practice?
Our winter miniseries – Principles in Practice – started as a brainstorm amidst our Oneota Community Food Cooperative Board of Directors. After learning that 2025 was a United Nations International Year of Cooperatives, we wanted to lift up the many diverse co-ops that make our region thrive. In Northeast Iowa alone, we rely on cooperatives for our banking needs, transportation, grocery hauls, and so much more. Cooperatives help people pool their capital, talents, and labor to lessen their risk and amplify their impact. Co-ops really make the world go round! Through these sessions, we hope to educate the community and connect people with cooperatives who are making a difference. We hope you’ll join us for this conversation, and bring your curiosity and questions along!