The United Nations has declared 2012 the International Year of Co-operatives. Co-operatives celebrate a different way of doing business, where emphasis isn’t just placed on the bottom line but also on the needs and social well-being of the overall community. Meridian invites you to celebrate with us and find out how co-operative enterprises build a better world.
What is a co-operative?
A co-operative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise. Â
Co-operative enterprises have been building local economies and improving lives and livelihoods for hundreds of years. Â
How many co-operatives are there in Canada?
Canada has an active and vibrant co-operative movement that includes local, provincial, regional and national networks. Canadian co-operatives and credit unions touch the lives of millions of Canadians and can be found in every sector of our economy. They have approximately 18 million members, more than 150,000 employees and control assets of an estimated $252 billion.
Where can I learn more about the International Year of Co-operatives?
Canadians interested in learning more about the co-operative system in Canada and ways to celebrate this milestone year can visit the Canadian Co-operative Association website at www.canada2012.coop.
