Associate Membership
Associate Membership Program
Associate Membership at Unify Co-Op is our entry-level, consumer-focused membership designed for individuals who want to support the cooperative and participate in select programs without the obligations of full cooperative governance. As the minimum legal requirement for membership, Associate Members help sustain Unify Co-Op’s mission of environmental stewardship and community-building, while enjoying limited involvement in the cooperative’s activities.
What is Associate Membership?
Associate Membership is considered the consumer-level membership at Unify Co-Op, allowing members to access certain cooperative programs and services without being subject to the full scope of the cooperative’s bylaws. While Associate Members are not involved in governance or decision-making, their participation is vital to the cooperative’s success.
As part of the legal requirement, all Associate Members are asked to sign a liability release and hold harmless agreement to ensure that both the cooperative and its members are protected during participation in Unify Co-Op’s activities.
Key Benefits of Associate Membership
Consumer-Level Access: Associate Members enjoy access to select Unify Co-Op programs, services, and events without the obligations of Regular Membership.
Support the Cooperative: By becoming an Associate Member, you are contributing to the growth and sustainability of Unify Co-Op, helping us fulfill our mission of building a sustainable, connected community.
No Governance Responsibilities: Associate Membership does not require participation in the cooperative’s governance, meaning you are free from the obligations of voting, attending meetings, or holding office within the organization.
Reduced Legal Obligations: While not subject to the full bylaws of Unify Co-Op, Associate Members must agree to the liability release and hold harmless agreement, ensuring mutual protection and peace of mind during participation in cooperative activities.
Who Should Become an Associate Member?
Associate Membership is ideal for individuals who:
Want to support Unify Co-Op’s mission without the responsibilities of Regular Membership.
Are looking for limited participation in programs, events, and services.
Prefer to engage with the cooperative as consumers rather than co-owners.
Wish to contribute to sustainability initiatives in a simple, consumer-focused way.
How to Become an Associate Member
Joining Unify Co-Op as an Associate Member is easy. Simply complete the membership form and sign the liability release and hold harmless agreement to begin accessing our programs and services. Associate Membership requires minimal commitment, making it the perfect way to show your support for the cooperative.
Ready to Become an Associate Member?
Join today and start supporting Unify Co-Op’s mission of building a sustainable future through community engagement, environmental stewardship, and outdoor activities.
Become an Associate Member → Link to Associate Membership Form
Associate Membership FAQs:
Do Associate Members get voting rights?
No, Associate Members are not granted voting rights or involvement in governance decisions.
Are there any financial obligations?
Associate Members are not required to make regular donations or investments, but there may be program-specific costs for participation.
What is the liability release and hold harmless agreement?
This agreement ensures that both Unify Co-Op and its Associate Members are protected from legal liability during participation in cooperative activities and programs.
Associate Membership offers a flexible, consumer-level way to support Unify Co-Op’s mission. By becoming an Associate Member, you’ll contribute to the cooperative’s efforts to make a positive impact on the environment and the community, without the commitments of Regular Membership.