Co-op Education - BC Coop Association

Co-operative education is an essential pillar of the BCCA’s organizational mission and purpose. Through our Co-operative Education program, we honour the legacy of the 5th Co-operative Principle: Education, Training, and Information that has catalyzed the growth and development of the co-operative movement since it’s early beginnings.

Workshops

Check out BCCA’s suite of workshops designed to support you wherever you are at in your co-operative journey. We offer scheduled workshops throughout the year where you can learn alongside others who are engaged in the co-operative movement. You can also request a workshop from the list below and we can tailor it specifically to your co-op or organization. See BCCA’s Events Calendar for upcoming scheduled workshops. To request a workshop specific to your co-op, please contact our Education Manager, Madelyn Read, at madelyn@bcca.coop.

Co-ops 101

As we face inequality and climate change, co-operatives stand tall as powerful organizations that distribute wealth, respond to crises, and empower communities. Our Co-ops 101 Workshop explores the transformative potential of co-operatives and how we can be engaged participants in this movement. This interactive workshop explores the foundations of co-operatives and how they are distinct from other organizational models, the different types of co-operative structures, the history of co-operation, and case studies for how co-ops are addressing real-world challenges.

Co-operative Governance

The member-owner structure of co-operatives requires a unique approach to governance. This workshop is designed to help you understand co-operative governance and how it differs from other organizations, what governance is and the difference between board and staff roles, hallmarks of good governance in co-ops of various sizes, structures, and sectors, and how to make meaningful purpose-driven and member-focused decisions. Anyone with an interest in co-operatives, governance, and board decision-making is welcome to participate. No matter your depth of co-op experience in co-op governance, this workshop will provide you with an engaging opportunity to learn among peers and apply content to your own contexts.

Member Engagement in Co-ops

As member-owned and governed organizations, co-ops are strongest when they have engaged and informed memberships. In order to fully realize the potential of co-operatives in serving their members and communities, member engagement must be integrated into co-operative practice. During this workshop, participants will explore the ways in which member engagement powers the co-operative model, the risks inherent to neglecting engagement, different engagement tools and approaches, and case studies of different co-ops and how they have implemented successful engagement initiatives. This workshop is open to anyone interested in member engagement. It is especially useful for board members, employees, and members of co-operatives.

Have ideas or questions about our co-op education program?

For further information, please contact our Co-operative Education Manager by emailing madelyn@bcca.coop.