October marks Co Op Month, a time when communities, businesses, and institutions spotlight cooperative enterprises and the ways they share power and profits. You’ll see local co-ops celebrating member ownership, democratic governance, and community impact. As you learn about these organizations, you’ll notice they’re built around practical needs—food, housing, banking, energy—and they return value to people instead of distant shareholders. That focus shapes how they operate and how you might engage with them.
Quick Facts
When is it?: October
Tagged as: National Cooperative Business Association
What’s the hashtag?: #CoOpMonth #Cooperatives #CommunityFirst #MemberOwned #DemocraticGovernance
When was it founded?: Not clearly documented, but the concept of cooperatives dates back to the 19th century with the establishment of the Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers in 1844.
Who founded it?: Not officially confirmed, but commonly attributed to a group of 28 weavers in Rochdale, England.
History of Co Op Month
Cooperative Month has its roots in the cooperative movement that began in the 19th century. The Rochdale Pioneers, who established the first successful cooperative in 1844, set a model for cooperative businesses that emphasized democratic governance, member ownership, and equitable profit distribution. Over time, the cooperative model spread globally, leading to the establishment of various types of cooperatives that serve diverse community needs. In 1948, the U.S. Congress officially recognized October as Cooperative Month to highlight the importance of cooperatives in the economy and encourage communities to engage with local co-ops. Each year, the month serves as a reminder of the cooperative principles that empower individuals and strengthen communities.
Timeline
- 1844: Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers is founded in England.
- 1948: U.S. Congress designates October as Cooperative Month.
- 1960s: Cooperative movement expands in the U.S. with the rise of consumer and worker co-ops.
- 1995: International Day of Cooperatives is established by the United Nations.
- 2000: The International Cooperative Alliance launches the Cooperatives for Development initiative.
- 2012: The International Year of Cooperatives is celebrated globally.
- 2020: The impact of cooperatives is highlighted amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2021: Co-op Month events pivot to virtual formats due to ongoing health concerns.
Past and Future dates
| Year | Month | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | October | 1-31 |
| 2027 | October | 1-31 |
| 2028 | October | 1-31 |
| 2029 | October | 1-31 |
| 2030 | October | 1-31 |
| 2031 | October | 1-31 |
| 2032 | October | 1-31 |
| 2033 | October | 1-31 |
Observed
Co Op Month is observed by various local co-ops hosting events, workshops, and community gatherings. This month serves as an opportunity for co-ops to educate the public about their structure, the benefits of membership, and the impact they have on local economies. Many co-ops also offer special promotions or discounts to encourage new memberships and celebrate existing members.
Activities for This Day
1. Attend a Cooperative Workshop
Explore the principles of cooperatives and learn how they operate.
2. Visit a Local Co-op
Engage with your community by shopping at a local cooperative.
3. Participate in Community Events
Join local festivities that celebrate Co Op Month.
4. Host a Co-op Discussion
Create a space for community members to discuss the benefits of cooperatives.
5. Share on Social Media
Use hashtags to spread awareness about Co Op Month and your favorite cooperatives.
How to Celebrate Co Op Month
- Join a local co-op and attend their meetings.
- Volunteer your time for cooperative initiatives.
- Share educational resources about cooperatives with friends and family.
- Promote co-ops on social media and encourage others to support them.
- Participate in local events that celebrate cooperative businesses.
Why Co Op Month is Important
Co Op Month is crucial because it raises awareness about the cooperative model, which offers an alternative to traditional business practices. By emphasizing member ownership and democratic governance, cooperatives provide a means for communities to address their needs directly. This month highlights the positive impact cooperatives have on local economies and fosters a spirit of collaboration and social responsibility.
FAQ
1. What is a cooperative?
A cooperative is a member-owned business that operates for the benefit of its members, emphasizing democratic governance and profit-sharing.
2. How do cooperatives differ from traditional businesses?
Unlike traditional businesses that prioritize profit for shareholders, cooperatives focus on member needs and community benefits.
3. Can anyone join a cooperative?
Yes, most cooperatives have open membership policies, allowing anyone to join and participate.
4. What types of cooperatives exist?
There are various types of cooperatives, including consumer co-ops, worker co-ops, housing co-ops, and agricultural co-ops.
5. How are profits distributed in cooperatives?
Profits are typically reinvested in the cooperative or distributed to members based on their participation or usage.
6. What is the significance of Co Op Month?
Co Op Month celebrates the cooperative movement and promotes awareness of the benefits that cooperatives bring to communities and economies.
7. How can I find a local cooperative?
You can search online directories or contact local cooperative associations to locate cooperatives in your area.
Related
- International Day of Cooperatives
- National Cooperative Business Association Day
- Cooperative Development Month
- National Credit Union Day
- Worker Cooperative Week
- Community Supported Agriculture Day