We have also been less successful at “co-operation amongst co-operatives,” working with other co-ops to strengthen the co-op movement and influence policy at federal, provincial and municipal levels.
Our strategy for action on this principle was to establish a Strengthening Co-ops Fund to support member activities that help build the co-op movement. Our primary interest is housing, but we recognize that the co-operative movement extends far beyond housing to embrace a huge number of interrelated social, cultural and economic initiatives.
View Court Housing Co-op members can apply The funds can be used to support activities or projects that strengthen the co-operative movement eg. organizing public panels, meetings or discussions, preparation and presentation of policy briefs, intervention in municipal, regional, provincial or federal policy agendas to further the interests of co-ops, or co-operation with other co-ops on similar activities.
These funds can really only be used to complement an idea or initiative that exists, they don’t compensate for salaries or honoraria, just out of pocket expenses. But, if a member or neighbour has a great idea that fits, View Court will help make their vision a reality. We shall see if they are utilized in the ways they are intended…