Dear Members,

I hope you’re enjoying the summer season! It’s been a busy few months at BCCA, and I’m excited to share some updates on the programs, events, and initiatives that are helping us strengthen BC’s co-operative sector. From connecting co-ops across the province to raising our profile at the heart of government, there’s a lot happening – and you’re at the center of it.

This fall, BCCA is excited to be hosting Co-ops at the Capital, where twenty of our member co-ops will visit the BC Legislature in Victoria. As guests of Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-Profits, Joan Phillip, these co-ops will share their stories and highlight the important role co-operatives play in communities across BC. This is a rare and meaningful opportunity for our sector to be visible at the heart of government, and we are thrilled to represent the co-operative movement in this way. We look forward to sharing highlights from the day with all of you.

The BC Co-op Tour is well underway, and we’re grateful for the momentum building around this initiative. So far, 117 people from 40 different co-ops have joined us, with many saying the chance to connect with peers has been the most valuable part. We can’t wait to continue the tour in qathet, Prince George, Nelson, Salmon Arm, and Golden. Being on the road has been a reminder of the incredible strength and creativity in our co-op sector. Each stop has shown me that the real value of this work isn’t just in programs or services – it’s in the relationships that co-ops build with one another.

That spirit of co-ops supporting co-ops also shines through in our new Mentorship Hour program. This members-only series offers co-ops the opportunity to share their expertise and experiences. Every session leaves me inspired by the wisdom and generosity in our community – it’s proof that when co-ops share knowledge, we all grow stronger.

During Co-op Week, BCCA will co-host Business Not as Usual alongside provincial associations from across Canada – a national digital campaign and live-streamed event focused on bold co-operative solutions for housing, work, and shared ownership. Students, creators, and emerging leaders will come together to hear fresh ideas, real stories, and ways to take action. We’ll share more details soon about how you can be involved.

A special thank-you goes to our summer student, Iva, who provided incredible support in organizing the Co-op Tour. She’s now heading back to school to begin her PhD studies, and we wish her every success in this next chapter.

Thank you all for being part of this journey. I feel grateful every day to be part of this movement, and I look forward to all we’ll accomplish together in the months ahead.

Warmly,
Tara