## How to Join as a Member

### 1. Read the Statutes

[Here are our statutes](statutes/statutes_en.md) (auch [auf Deutsch](statutes/statutes_de.md)). It is important to read them before you decide to join!

### 2. Connect with Us

To become a member, we need the following information from you—required by law:

a. A signed [membership application](templates/eintrittsgesuch.pdf) (preferably as a photo or PDF, or by mail)

b. Personal details:

- First name
- Last name
- Year of birth
- Place of residence
- Address
- If referred by someone, please include their name or email

Send us your information via email with the subject: **Join the Cooperative**

### 3. Purchase Shares or Transfer Money

Pay your shares at the same time.

By purchasing shares, you confirm you have read the statutes.

- Our organization [OpenCollective](https://opencollective.com/spiu/) is our central budgeting and fundraising platform.
- The minimum for the first year is 2 shares at CHF 50 each, totaling CHF 100. In the second year, one share.
- The maximum number of shares per year is 5.

Go to the [contribute page](https://opencollective.com/spiu/contribute) to see payment options.

### 4. After We Receive Your Information

- We will send you a confirmation email with your membership.
  - This is personal and non-transferable.
- We will list you in the [member registry](members.md).
  - You can add yourself via a pull request!
- We will invite you to a discussion channel.
  - This will also give you access to our apps, upcoming events, and infrastructure.

Thank you for your interest. We look forward to having you on board!

Best regards

SPIU Cooperative