COOPERATIVES FOR VETERANS
WORKER OWNED EGALITARIAN CAPITALISM
Veterans possess a unique set of skills, experiences, and values that make them well-suited for participation in cooperative enterprises. Cooperatives, which are member-owned and democratically controlled organizations, align with the principles of mutual support and collective benefit that resonate with many veterans. Engaging veterans in cooperatives not only provides them with meaningful employment opportunities but also fosters community development and economic resilience.
Here you will find all of the state charters for different cooperative types, non-profit organizations dedicated to the cooperative proposition, and training opportunities. We also include veteran cooperatives and thier support directories.
The cooperative model is an important part of American capitalism where the worker is the owner their fellow workers and responsible for their own productivity and efficiency, thereby sharing in the profit.
Types of Cooperatives
Cooperatives operate across various sectors, each serving different purposes and member needs. The primary types include:
Producer Cooperatives: Owned by producers of goods or services who collaborate to process and market their products.
Three Rivers Market
Worker Cooperatives: Owned and self-managed by their employees, emphasizing democratic decision-making.
Consumer Cooperatives: Owned by consumers who purchase goods or services from the cooperative, ensuring products meet their needs.
Credit Unions: Member-owned financial cooperatives providing banking services, often to specific communities or groups.
Housing Cooperatives: Provide residential housing to members who collectively own and manage the property.
Retail or Purchasing Cooperatives: Enable members to purchase goods or services collectively, often at reduced costs.
Social Cooperatives: Focus on delivering social services, such as healthcare or education, to members and communities.
These cooperative models offer veterans avenues to apply their leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in civilian life.
Cooperative Charters by State
In the United States, cooperatives are primarily chartered at the state level, with each state having its own statutes governing their formation and operation. While a comprehensive list of all cooperative charters by state is extensive, here are examples from select states:
California: Worker cooperatives are governed under the California Corporations Code §§12200 to 12656.5.
Massachusetts: The Massachusetts General Laws ch. 157A outlines the formation of worker cooperatives.
Wikipedia
New York: Cooperative Corporations are regulated under the New York Cooperative Corporations Law §§ 80 to 94.
Texas: Cooperatives operate under the Texas Business Organizations Code, Title 6, Chapters 251 and 252.
For detailed information on cooperative statutes in each state, individuals should consult their respective Secretary of State’s office or legal counsel specializing in cooperative law.
Secretary of State Contact Information
Each state’s Secretary of State office provides resources and guidance on forming and managing cooperatives. Below is a selection of contact information for these offices:
California Secretary of State
Website: https://www.sos.ca.gov
Phone: (916) 653-6814
Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth
Website: https://www.sec.state.ma.us
Phone: (617) 727-9640
New York Department of State
Website: https://www.dos.ny.gov
Phone: (518) 474-4752
Texas Secretary of State
Website: https://www.sos.state.tx.us
Phone: (512) 463-5555
Resources for Cooperatives
Cooperative Associations and Resources for Veterans
Numerous organizations support the development of cooperatives and offer resources tailored for veterans:
National Cooperative Business Association (NCBA CLUSA)
Website: https://ncbaclusa.coop
Provides advocacy, development, and support for cooperatives across the U.S.
U.S. Federation of Worker Cooperatives (USFWC)
Website: https://www.usworker.coop
A national grassroots membership organization for worker cooperatives.
Wikipedia
Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) Program
Website: https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance/resource-partners/veterans-business-outreach-center-vboc-program
Offers business training, counseling, and mentoring for veterans.
Vets Power Us Initiative
Website: https://www.cooperative.com/programs-services/hr/veteran-hiring-initiative/Pages/Vets-Power-Us-Veterans-Hiring-Initiative.aspx
An initiative to connect veterans with careers in electric cooperatives.
America’s Electric Cooperatives
Endeavors
Website: https://www.endeavors.org
Provides supportive services for veterans, including housing, mental health, and employment assistance.
Veterans Association of America (VAA)
Website: https://www.vetsaa.org
Offers support services and advocacy for veterans across the nation.
These organizations can assist veterans in accessing resources, training, and support necessary to engage in cooperative ventures.
Conclusion
Integrating veterans into cooperative enterprises presents a mutually beneficial opportunity. Veterans bring discipline, leadership, and a commitment to collective success, aligning seamlessly with cooperative principles. By leveraging the support of state agencies and dedicated organizations, veterans can find meaningful pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and community engagement through cooperatives.