Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Unify Cooperative's donation investment process for membership?

At the Unify Cooperative, we believe in shared ownership, democracy, and mutual benefit for our member-owners. Becoming a member-owner of the Unify Co-Op involves making a tax-deductible donation, which directly supports our mission and grants you voting rights on cooperative matters that may require the consent of our membership body such as new business or changes in policy.

Are there different membership levels?

Yes, Unify Cooperative offers various membership levels, each with a different minimum donation amount, with or without membership dues, and with active, inactive, and honorific membership roles and standing; this is so we can accommodate a wide range of members from the community regardless of income or social status. These levels come with varying voting rights and potential benefits (e.g., including discounts on cooperative goods, services, and invitations to activities). Details about specific membership levels and benefits can be found on our Membership Page.

Is my donation for membership or community investment refundable?

No, donations to Unify Cooperative are not refundable and irrevocable simply because they are donations designated to benefit the betterment and well-being of the greater community. However, your donation investment is transferrable to another person, such as a family member or friend; you also retain equity as a voting member of the cooperative by paying monthly dues. If you want to retire your title you can always contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Is the co-op an actual cooperative entity?

Yes, the Unify Cooperative goes the distance and provides members with a real sense of ownership and involvement in everything that we do. Members are legal 1/100th (1%) to 1/1,000th (0.1%) fractional owners in our real estate; they derive mutual benefit from our programs and can earn dividends based on their financial and actual participation in our projects. By keeping up with their dues members maintain voting privileges. We have applied the Rochdale Principles, State, Federal, and International Law to the base of our organizational development. The operation is guided by the seven (7) cooperative principles. Our Articles of Association and the Bylaws of the Cooperative form the bedrock of our perpetual and purposeful existence.

Can I deduct my donation investment as a charitable contribution?

Yes, all donations and dues are tax-deductible because we are developed as both a cooperative and a nonprofit organization due to the services we provide to the community by planting trees, maintaining trails on public recreational land, and fostering cultural interpretation, historic preservation, and environmental activities that are open to the greater community. 

What are the benefits of becoming a member-owner?

There are several benefits to becoming a member-owner of Unify Cooperative:

• Voting Rights: You have a say in the cooperative's direction and mutual benefit programs by voting on important decisions that fall outside of our original development and organizational plan.

• Transparency: As a member-owner, you have access to financial reports and other relevant information about the cooperative's internal operations and the insights of our board.

• Shared Ownership: You become part of a community dedicated to [Unify Cooperative's Mission Statement].

• Products and Services: Depending on your membership level, you are eligible for gifts and discounts on goods or services offered by the cooperative and its members.

Is there any connection to other associations, businesses, cooperatives, or organizations?

The Unify Cooperative is a new entity built on the foundation of shared values and a commitment to the ideals of cooperatives that are established for the public good. One of our goals is to foster and protect the well-developed ideas and interests of our members. Our aim is to continue and expand upon important programs, products, and services created and offered by our members that benefit our cooperative. We like to think that our cooperative is a place where the community can come together with beneficial and purposeful programs with projects that will promote the well-being of all those that we serve.

Who should I contact if I have further questions?

For any further questions about membership, donations, or the cooperative in general, please don't hesitate to contact us at [Contact Information].

We encourage you to explore our website and other resources to learn more about Unify Cooperative and how your investment (donation) can make a difference in the community and for your own benefit!

Transparency Note: Unify Cooperative is very committed to transparency.  As a new organization, we are focused on building trust and establishing a solid and strong foundation which is why we have tied our real estate to the organizational formation. We keep our members informed of any significant developments.