The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2012 as the International Year of Co-operatives (IYC), highlighting the contribution of co-operatives to socio-economic development. With the theme of
“Co-operative Enterprises Build a Better World,” the year seeks to encourage the growth and establishment of co-operatives all over the world.
What does this mean to clients of The Co-operators?
You can feel good about doing business with The Co-operators. We are a strong supporter and member of the co-operative sector. As such, we are proud to join forces with co-operatives and credit unions worldwide to celebrate IYC and show why co-ops are better.
Co-operatives are viable, values-based businesses governed by member-owners who benefit from their operation. As a co-operative, we abide by seven globally recognized principles and believe in:
- Putting people before profits: Success is measured beyond our financials. We also make business decisions based on doing what’s right and what’s healthy for our clients and communities.
- Building stronger, safer communities: It’s not just about giving money; we live and work in the communities we serve, so we roll up our sleeves and get involved locally.
- Transparency and open communication: We believe in providing information to help our clients make choices that are the best for them.
- Democratic decision-making: We look for more than just client feedback; we create ways for our clients and our communities to influence our business and our decisions.
Co-operative enterprises have been building local economies, improving livelihoods and supporting communities for hundreds of years. In 2012, the world will celebrate the co-operative business model and honour values of working together to meet our economic, social and cultural needs.
Watch this website, our Facebook page, and your local community as The Co-operators highlights it’s place as a leading Canadian co-operative working to help make our communities better places.
Join us and other co-operatives worldwide to celebrate this significant year. Learn more at www.canada2012.coop.
