This provides considerable opportunity for personal development and allows residents to work together to cut costs and control their own housing charges over the long term. Co-operative living encourages democratic member control based on the principles of honesty, openness, social responsibility and integrity. Co-operatives facilitate community development and individual growth potential using education and the practical experience opportunities that are made available. In primary co-ops each member has one vote. All members contribute fairly to their co-ops, which they own in common.
Surpluses are hold for the future and used to improve the co-op's services.
Co-ops offer training to their members, directors and staff. Co-ops tell the public what they are and what they do.