Cooperatives exist to meet their members needs. Their focus is
on service to members, not on bringing a return to investors.
Cooperative members are not penalized for working together in a
cooperative business under US Tax Code; therefore many cooperatives
enjoy tax advantages.
Cooperatives are owned and controlled by their members. They
help keep resources in the members community and are guided by
members values.
Decisions made democratically by the membership provide a
strong direction that is supported across the organization.
Profits are returned to members so members benefit from the
business they do with the cooperative.
Cooperatives contribute to the economic stability of their
communities.