Every minute of every day cooperatives are impacting the lives of Americans. Because this unique form of private enterprise is a powerful economic force, we have created this publication to celebrate its importance to our nation.
A Day in the Life of Cooperative America was first published in 1994 to both describe the diversity of cooperatives and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Rochdale Pioneers, the 28 workers in England who formed the first successful cooperative in 1844. From that humble beginning has grown a business model replicated across our country—and around the world.
Though cooperatives are embraced globally, their common characteristic of democratic control speaks to the American spirit. Participation in cooperatives allows people from all walks of life to reap the benefits of a joint endeavor while maintaining the independence we so cherish in the United States.
The following is a new version of A Day in the Life of Cooperative America for your education and enjoyment. Read on to learn what happens in a day in the life of cooperative America.
—Paul Hazen
President and Chief Executive Officer National Cooperative Business Association
On behalf of the National Co-op Month Committee
