What's New?!
Opportunity Development Co-operatives –Information Session
Join us in Saskatoon on May 27th to learn about Alberta’s booming Opportunity Development Co-operatives program and how this program could apply to Saskatchewan. An Opportunity Development Co-operative (ODC) is a for-profit co-operative that raises capital locally to invest in a local business.
This will be a panel presentation and discussion with:
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Michele Aasgard, Executive Director of the Alberta Community and Co-operative Association (ACCA) will present an overview of the Unleashing Local Capital program,
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Paul Cabaj, Director of Co-operative Development at Alberta Community and Co-operative Association, and
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Verona Thibault, Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Economic Development Association.
From the ACCA website:
The “Unleashing Local Capital” program empowers communities to invest locally, direct their own economic development, and reduce dependency on government supports. It educates rural Albertans on investing locally, and facilitates the establishment of their ownOpportunity Development Co-operative (ODC). TheOpportunity Development Co-operative (ODC)you incorporate collects capital from local investors and invests it in a local business. It is in the community, for the community, and by the community. It provides you and other community members with an opportunity to invest your savings into business ventures in your community. It has proven to be extremely successful to support succession of an existing business (where owners are planning to retire), new business, and expansion of an existing business. Moreover, investing in shares in yourODCis RRSP eligible. Best of all, it ensures that important local businesses, jobs, and infrastructure remain and thrive in rural communities.
Who Should Attend: Economic Development Officers, Government Agency Representatives, Co-operative Developers, Co-operative and Credit Union Managers, Interested Citizens, SCA Members
Date: May 27, 2013
Time: 5-6:00 pm
Location: Basement Training Room at SCA/St. Mary’s Branch of Affinity Credit Union,
1515 20th Street West, Saskatoon.
Cost: Free / Sponsored by Saskatchewan Co-operative Association
Please RSVP to scott.whiting@sask.coop 306-244-3702 by May 22 if you plan to attend.
Registration Now Open for 18th Annual Co-op Classic Golf Tournament!
Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 18th Annual Co-op Classic Golf Tournament! Proceeds from the event benefit the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program and the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada. The tournament will be held at the Harbor Golf and Country Club at Elbow, and fees include a steak dinner. We look forward to seeing you out on the course this year!
Refer to the documents below to confirm your registration and/or sponsorship of the event:
SCA Welcomes Member Services and Education Intern, Karen Morris
SCA is pleased to announce that Karen Morris has joined the SCA team until the end of September. Her work will focus on helping develop a member consultation process and helping develop webinars and co-operative education materials. More info to come soon!
SCA Welcomes SCYP Program Assistants Anne Viczko and Brett Goller
SCA is pleased to announce that Anne and Brett have joined us for the summer! They will be helping out with the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program until late August. More info. to come soon!
SCA Welcomes Jamal Tekleweld as new Program Officer
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association is excited to welcome Jamal Tekleweld to our team. Jamal joined SCA on April 2 as our new Program Officer, responsible for the co-ordination of the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program. Find out more about Jamal here.
Co-op's $1 million donation and local employee help gives boost to Red Cross emergency response in Western Canada
Federated Co‐operatives Limited (FCL) and its 235 member‐owned retail Co‐ops are donating $1,000,000 over five years to help local Co‐ops and the Canadian Red Cross work together to provide effective, community‐based emergency response throughout Western Canada. This is the largest single, multi‐year donation in the history of the Co‐operative Retailing System (CRS).
The Red Cross will receive $100,000/year to pre‐position goods across the West in order to respond quickly to local crises. Another $100,000/year will be available to match local retail Co‐ops’ emergency donations to the Red Cross. Equally important, Co‐op employees will have the opportunity to step up as volunteers to assist in the event of local emergencies. In the first year of the partnership retail Co‐ops with operations in and around Brandon, Portage La Prairie, Prince Albert, Yorkton, Grande Prairie, Medicine Hat, Aldergrove and Comox are encouraging employees to become volunteer reservists with their local Red Cross.
You can learn more about the donation and the volunteer recruitment in FCL's April 4, 2013 News Release.
Call for Norm Bromberger Research Bursary Applications
Credit Union Central of Saskatchewan is pleased to announce the 19th Annual Norm Bromberger Research Bursary. The bursary was established in recognition of the outstanding contributions made by Norm Bromberger to the development of credit unions and co-operatives in Saskatchewan and across Canada. It is awarded annually to support research relating to co-operatives and/or credit unions. Application forms are now available and the application deadline is June 30, 2013.
Call for Sid Bildfell Business Education Bursary Applications
The Sid Bildfell Business Education Bursary provides $5,000 to a business student studying administration, commerce or finance in the province of Saskatchewan. Applications for the bursary are being accepted until May 31, 2013. The bursary was created in honour the contributions of Sid Bildfell, a former CEO of SaskCentral, over his 41 years of invovlement with the Saskatchewan co-operative and credit union sector. Mr. Bildfell was strong leader who believed in the importance of education and lifelong learning.
Co-operative Network of Saskatoon Luncheon features Ian MacPherson
You are invited to attend the Co-operative Network of Saskatoon luncheon on Wednesday, March 20 at noon at the Parktown Hotel.
Ian MacPherson, Director, Co-operative Initiative for Peace and Social Inclusion, Centre for Co-operative and Community Based Economy, University of Victoria, will speak on the topic of "The Limits of Co-operation".
Shift Change Free Screenings
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association along with Planet S and Prairie Dog Magazines present free screenings of Shift Change, a documentary about worker co-operatives. Shift Changeis a documentary film by veteran award-winning filmmakers Melissa Young and Mark Dworkin. It tells the little known stories of employee owned businesses in Spain and America that compete successfully in today’s economy while providing secure, dignified jobs in democratic workplaces.
Screenings will take place in Regina on Tuesday, March 9 and in Saskatoon on Thursday, March 28. Details below:
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Regina Screening |
Saskatoon Screening |
Speakers to Discuss Co-operatives, Co-operation and Peace
The Centre for the Study of Co-operatives and the Saskatoon Peace Coalition are presenting a discussion on Co-operatives, Co-operation and Peace on Wednesday, March 20 at 7 p.m. Ian MacPerson, Emeritus Professor History at the University of Victoria and Scott Kim, Visiting Researcher at the Centre for the Study of Co-operatives, will discuss co-operative approaches to peace.
Dean's Speaker Series to featuer Ken Kosolofski
Ken Kosolofski, President and CEO of Concentra Financial will be the next speaker at the Dean's Speaker Series on Tueday, March 26. He will be discussing Concentra and the Resurgence of the Financial Co-operative Model.
SCA Program Officer Receives Prestigious Award
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association Program Officer Heather Hale has been selected a recipient of the 2013 Global Citizen Awards.
Heather Hale, along with Bruno Hernani, will receive the Emerging Global Citizen Award. Recipients of the 2013 Global Citizen award are Lori Hanson, Denise Kouri, Joan Rink, and Jim Harding.
Since 1990 the Saskatchewan Council for International Cooperation (SCIC) has recognized more than 50 Saskatchewan people and organizations who make amazing contributions to international development, co-operation, peace and justice. Global Citizens are nominated and selected through a peer review process and receive their awards during annual International Development Week celebrations.
This year’s celebrations take place February 2 in Regina and February 9 in Saskatoon. For more information about both events, as well as other International Development Week events, go to http://ebeat.sasktelwebhosting.com/events/international_development_week.php.
SaskCentral Appoints New CEO
SaskCentral, the trade association and umbrella organization for Saskatchewan's 55 credit unions, has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer. Keith Nixon has 30 years experience contributing to Saskatchewan credit union system in various positions, incluing interim CEO since September 2012. Prior to that he was the Executive Vice-President, Corporate and Community Affairs and Corporate Secretary.
"Mr. Nixon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role," President of the Board Don Blocka said. "He has a long history with the credit union system and has exhibited strong leadership and sound decision making in his previous role on the executive team and as interim CEO."
Dean's Speaker Series Features Keith Nixon
Keith Nixon, CEO of SaskCentral, will speak at the Edwards School of Business on January 21 from 4:00 to 5:15 p.m as part of the Dean's Speaker Series. His talk, "Counting on the Difference: Credit Unions and the Co-operative Model", will look at the role of credit unions in Saskatchewan and the ways that credit unions, as financial co-operatives, support social values and differ from traditional for-profit businesses.
Alberta Community and Co-operative Association Offers Co-op Development Workshop
If you would like to learn how to starte your own co-op, register for the Co-op Development Workshop being offered by ACCA on January 28th and 29th in Calgary. This two-day, hands-on workshop is designed for Economic Development Officers, Community Futures staff, community leaders and stakeholders and anyone interested in supporting the development of a coop.
More information is available from ACCA.
SCYP Alumni Emily Erhardt Recognized in Legislature
On Thursday, November 15, 2012 David Forbes, MLA for Saskatoon Centre, rose in the Legislature to recognized the International Co-operative Alliance's Co-op Art Contest and finalist Emily Erhardt. His remarks are recorded in the Hansard and include the following:
“Recently the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) held a youth arts contest entitled Co-op Art in honour of the United Nation’s International Year of Co-operatives. The ICA is an independent, non-governmental organization that unites, represents, and serves co-operatives worldwide.
"The contest was open to people aged 16 to 35 with the aim to raise awareness of young people through photography, video and music. Out of 35 countries that participated, 174 submissions were sent in, and Canada had four finalists. Among the four finalists was Emily Erhardt who is a Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program alumnus, coming in second place for her rap song “Join a Co-op.”
Mr. Speaker, I ask all members to join me today in thanking the ICA for organizing such a great event to bring out such a diverse array of talent, especially Emily on her competition. Thank you.”
Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) Reports Record Sales in 2012
A December 19, 2012 news release reports that Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) achieved record sales of $8.8 billion during 2012, an increase of 7 per cent from the previous year. It also reported net earnings from operations of $827 million for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2012.
“These are remarkable results given the increasing competition in the marketplace,” says CEO Scott Banda. “The success achieved is a credit to the foundational investments made the past few years in maintaining our competitive advantage and the exceptional service provided by the 20,000 dedicated employees who work in the Co-operative Retailing System.”
Banda added, “For nearly a century, co-ops have built a reputation on being the local business that cares about our members, our community and our world. By putting people’s needs at the forefront, demonstrating value, returning profits to our members, and supporting local causes, we continue to earn the trust and respect of our neighbours in the communities where we live and work.”
Of the $827 million in net earnings from operations, $527 million is being returned to FCL’s 230 retail owner-members in the form of a patronage allocation. The remainder of the earnings is retained in FCL to fund future growth initiatives and capital requirements.
Federated Co-operatives Limited Launched App
Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) and members of the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS) across Western Canada are excited to announce the launch of the retail Co-op CRS app for mobile devices.
The Co-op CRS app allows you to access location information, services available and hours of operation for 2,000 retail Co-op locations in 500 communities from Vancouver Island to northwestern Ontario.
Co-op’s 1.5 million individual members and its many more non-member daily customers can simply go to their mobile device’s app store and search for the words Co-op CRS to download the app.
More details are available in the December 7, 2012 news release.
Co-op Refinery Expansion Complete
The Section V expansion at the Co-op Refinery Complex (CRC) is complete and production has begun in the new units. Work continues on associated revamps which, when complete, will bring the total investment in this project to $2.66 billion.
The Regina-based refinery now has the capacity to process up to 145,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil, an increase of 45 per cent from its previous total of 100,000 bpd.
“Completion of Section V is indeed a time of celebration for everyone at the Co-op Refinery Complex and for all of us involved in the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS),” says Scott Banda, CEO, Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL). “The Refinery throughout its 77-year history has taken great pride in ensuring a stable supply of quality fuel for our retail Co-ops, their members and other customers. With Section V complete, and with revamps finished soon, the CRS is positioned to meet future supply needs and continue our tradition of fueling the economic growth and prosperity of Western Canada,” added Banda.
Section V consists of five new state-of-the-art processing units, which increases the total to 33 at the Refinery. It is supported by 14 additional storage tanks and vessels as well as new firewater, flare, plant and instrument systems, a cooling tower and an electrical substation.
Co-op Refinery Complex employs more than 800 people on a permanent basis. CRC began production in 1935 producing 500 barrels of crude oil per day and has since grown to be the 4th largest refinery in Canada.
Co-op Week Special Feature in Leader Post
On October 13, 2012, a special feature appeared in the Regina Leader Post. Entitled Celebrate Co-op Week, the feature highlighted the International Year of Co-operatives, co-operatives and credit union.
Co-operatives move forward with plans for national Co-operative Investment Fund
Three Canadian co-operative organizations have pledged their founding support for a new Co-operative Investment Fund that would provide Canadian co-operatives with access to the capital they need to expand and develop.
The Fund, which is envisioned to launch in 2013, is being created under the leadership of the Canadian Co-operative Association (CCA) with the support of a dedicated task force representing co-ops and credit unions across the country. It will support the development and expansion of individual co-operatives with loans and subordinated debt sourced from within the co-operative sector.
The organizations represented on the task force have begun to announce their pledges to launch the Fund and create the basis for further sector investment. To date, financial support has been pledged by Vancity, The Co-operators and the Canadian Worker Co-operative Federation (CWCF).
Inspired by the 2012 International Year of Co-operatives, this Fund will provide an important vehicle that co-operatives can leverage to grow and expand their contributions to communities across Canada, strengthening the co-operative sector and the many communities and individuals whose needs co-operatives meet.
CWCF Founding Investor in National Co-op Investment Fund
At its AGM the Canadian Worker Co-operative Federation (CWCF) approved a recommendation from its Board of Directors to pledge an investment of $250,000, contributed over a three-year period to the National Co-op Investment Fund (NCIF), lead by CCA. This includes $175,000 from the $500,000 in CWCF's Tenacity Works Fund, and $75,000 from an anonymous investor.
In their newsletter, CWCF states: "This pledge is an expression of faith in the NCIF as a sector-driven co-op development Fund supporting the expansion of new and existing co-ops (including worker co-ops, and with some focus on business successions), with leadership by people who understand the co-operative development process. The CWCF sees this fund as a vehicle for all of the co-op sector to share in the success of the co-op movement, through investing in new and existing co-ops.
Building Community Exhibit at Mendel Art Gallery
An exhibition running form October 19 to November 4 at the Mendel Art Gallery in Saskatoon will encourage visitors to imagine what is possible in their communities and illustrate how to make those dreams become a reality. Building Community: Creating Social and Economic Well-Being is produced by the Centre for the Study of Co-operatives in partnership with the Diefenbaker Canada Centre. Guilded tours are avaialble.
12 page Planet S/prairie dog Insert Celebrates IYC and Co-operatives
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association along with Planet S and prairie dog magazines are pleased to present the Celebrating Saskatchewan Co-operatives in 2012 insert to the two city newspapers.
Pulbished as a second section to the October 4 edition of the two newspapers, the IYC feature is a 12-page full colour publication all about co-operatives in Saskatchewan and around the world. It hits the newsstands October 4.
SCA would like to thank Planet S and prairie dog staff for all their hard work in puting together this feature. We would also like to thank all the co-ops and credit unions who supported the insert through advertising or editorial content.
November Begins with a Flurry of Co-op Events to Celebrate IYC
Three events are taking place from November 1 to 3 in Saskatoon in celebration of the International Year of Co-operatives.
1. The Co-operating to Build a Better West Conference will be held at the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon, beginning Thursday, November 1 with a keynote address by award-winning essayist and novelist John Ralson Saul, followed by a reception. Friday and Saturday schedules feature full days of concurrent and plenary sessions with topics such as Strategies for Co-operative Success in the New West and Demonstrating the Co-op Difference. The complete conference schedule is available on the conference website.
2. On Friday, November 2 the Co-operative Merit Awards banquet will be held at the Radisson Hotel Saskatoon. The banquet is open to conference delegates and the general public.
3. Also on Friday, November 2, Co-op Fest, a music festival and product fair, will be held at the Odeon Events Centre in Saskatoon. Featuring musical acts Library Voices, Slow Down, Molasses, The SeaHags and Kirby Criddle, Co-op Fest promises to be a great time for conference delegates and music fans.
To register for the Co-operating to Build a Better West conference and the Co-operative Merit Awards banquet, visit the conference website. Tickets for the Co-operative Merit Awards only are also available on line.
To buy Co-op Fest tickets: 
Western Producer Story features Glen Tully
The September 13 edition of the Western Producer features an article entitled "Co-operative model builds better world: FCL leader". In the article Federated Co-opertive Limited president Glen Tully discussed the importance of the co-opertive model.
Educational Presentation Informs and Inspires
Harmony Foundation is pleased to announce its new educational presentation
Co-operative Enterprises: Building a Healthier, More Sustainable World.
Co-operative Enterprises is a narrated multimedia presentation which examines the benefits of co-operatives and informs and inspires with examples of local leaders and residents working together to improve the well being of their communities. The accompanying Presenter’s Guide was created to assist dedicated individuals seeking to motivate members of their own communities to work together for positive local results. It provides detailed instructions for organizing and hosting a successful event to present Co-operative Enterprises, including group activities following the presentation to discuss local opportuniities for postive action practical ways the benefits of sustainable community development can be achieved.
Visit the Harmony Foundation's website to obtain a free copy of Co-operative Enterprises and learn more about Harmony’s educational programs and materials.
Co-operative Enterprises was made possible thanks to generous support from The Co-operators.
We've Moved!
The dust is slowly settling and the boxes are getting unpacked, as the SCA staff moves into new office space in the St. Mary's Branch of Affinity Credit Union. Located at 1515 20th Street West in Saskatoon, the new space features sunny windows, parking for staff and visitors and lots of friendly new faces to meet. Thanks for making us feel welcome, Affinity staff!
Harold Chapman Subject of Saskatoon StarPhoenix Article
The August 10, 2012 edition of the Saskaton StarPhoenix features the article "Co-operative Pioneer, 95, pens bestselling book" about Saskatoon co-operator Harold Champan. The book, "Sharing My Life" can be ordered by contacting Harold or through the SCA office.
New Book Explores A Co-operative Dilemma
A new book by Jorge Sousa and Roger Herman is available from the Centre for the Study of Co-operatives. Entitled A Co-operative Dilemma: Converting Organizational Form, the book is based on the experience of both academics and practitioners, and focusses on an issue of paramount importance to co-ops, nonprofits and other social economy organizations, development specialists, and policy makers. Twelve case studies from Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the United States explore the factors that lead businesses to consider converting their organizational form and the processes involved in the decision to mutualize, demutualize, or remutualize. The book is available for purchase form the Centre for $20 plus gst, shipping and handling. To order a copy, please contact coop.studies@usask.ca.
Four HeadStart on a Home condominium developments underway in Saskatoon
Four Saskatoon condominium developments, totaling 258 entry-level homes, are receiving $38 million in financing from the Government of Saskatchewan through the HeadStart on a Home (HeadStart) program. HeadStart on a Home will finance construction of at least 1,000 new, entry-level homes over five years.
Municipalities may apply for the loans on behalf of builders and developers. Funding of $200 million is available for the program through the Federal Immigrant Investor Program, which will flow through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Investor Fund Inc. (SIIF), managed by Westcap Mgt. Ltd. (Westcap). SIIF is a subsidiary of Crown Investments Corporation.
Westcap is partnering with Saskatchewan credit unions (Advantage, Affinity, Conexus, Cornerstone, Diamond North, Innovation, North Valley, Plainsview, Prairie Centre, Synergy, Spectra, and Weyburn) to administer Headstart on a Home to ensure communities across Saskatchewan have every opportunity to be a part of this housing program.
For more information about Headstart on a Home, visit the website at www.headstartonahome.ca.
IYC Flag Flies Over Saskatoon City Hall
On Friday, June 1, the IYC flag was raised over Saskatoon City hall in celebration of the UN proclaimed International Year of Co-operatives and the Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering. SCA Executive Director Victoria Morris hosted the event. City Councillor Bev Dubois brought greetings on behalf of the City of Saskatoon and thanked co-operators for their volunteerism and their contributions to their communities. Saskatchewan Co-operative Association Chair Beryl Bauer spoke about the importance of IYC to the co-operative sector and, with Councillor Dubois, raised the IYC 2012 flag.
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City Councillor Bev Dubois speaks at the Flag Raising while Beryl Bauer and Victoria Morris look on |
The IYC Flag will fly over Saskatoon City Hall until June 10. |
The Flag Raising was well attended by Saskatchewan co-operators. |
Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering was a Huge Success!
Co-operative and credit union staff, members and delegates were out in their communities Building a Better World and demonstrating the power of co-operatives. May 28 to June 3 was designated the Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering, and many activities took place.
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association's Events Page is still updating stories and photos as they are received. Check back regularly to read more.
CCA Survey Shows Canadians' Support for Co-operatives
The vast majority of Canadians say co-operatives provide better customer service than other types of businesses, treat their employees better, have more environmentally sustainable practices and support community values and the local economy.
Those were some of the results of an Abacus Data survey commissioned by the Canadian Co-operative Association and conducted on May 15 and 16.
According to the survey:
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85 per cent of respondents have heard of "a type of business called a co-operative."
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65 per cent describe themselves as "very familiar" or "somewhat familiar" with co-operatives. This is significantly higher than the result of an Ipsos Reid survey commissioned by CCA in 2010, possibly because the Abacus survey made specific reference to credit unions.
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41 per cent said they were a member of a co-operative and/or credit union.
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84 per cent were able to name a co-operative in their community. Desjardins and Mountain Equipment Co-op were most frequently mentioned.
Abacus then asked respondents to compare co-ops with other businesses on a variety of factors.
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84 per cent said co-ops are more likely to support the community's values.
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83 per cent said co-ops are more likely give people a say on how the business is run.
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82 per cent said co-ops are more likely to support the local economy.
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81 per cent said co-ops are more likely to sell locally produced products.
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76 per cent said co-ops are more likely to treat their employees better.
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72 per cent said co-ops are more likely to have environmentally sustainable practices.
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70 per cent said co-ops are more likely to have better customer service.
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53 per cent said co-ops are more likely to have lower prices.
The only factor in which other businesses were rated more highly than co-ops was convenience of location; 74 per cent said other businesses have more convenient locations than co-ops. However, assuming price, service, product quality and convenience are equal, 83 per cent said they would prefer to shop at "a locally-owned business that shares its profits among member-owners" than "a privately owned company that is part of a larger chain."
Only five per cent of those surveyed were aware that 2012 is the International Year of Co-operatives; the figure was highest (12 per cent) in Manitoba and Saskatchewan (referred to as "central" in the survey report). Go to http://s.coop/coopsurvey2012 to download the survey report.
2012 IYC Scholarships Announced
In celebration of the UN’s International Year of Co-operatives (IYC) 2012, the Saskatchewan Co-operative Association (SCA) established the 2012 International Year of Co-operatives Scholarships.
The scholarships rewarded alumni of the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program (SCYP) who are engaged in community and co-operative organizations. Four scholarships of $1,006 were awarded. The recipients of the scholarships were:
Kaylee Puchala – Regina
Adam Marlowe – Churchbridge
Emily Erhardt – Regina
Anne Viczko – Lake Lenore
Heather Hale, Program Officer, is very passionate about youth taking part in the IYC celebrations. Hale states, “Youth are vital to ensuring continued success in the co-operative sector. I think IYC is a great opportunity to highlight youth who are making a difference in their community and co-operative organizations.” With over 43,000 people having participated in the program over the last 80 years, SCYP has had a great influence on people’s understanding of co-operatives and interest in being involved in co-operative and community organizations.
Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering
May 28 to June 3 is the Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering, a special time for co-operators across the province to build a better world, beginning in their own communities.
SCA has written a news release with details of the upcoming Week of Volunteering and some background about the International Year of Co-operatives. Also check out the special Week of Volunteering insert from the last Co-operative Spotlight to see some of the great activities being planned around our province.
If you are planning an event please make sure to add it to our interactive events calendar at http://www.sask.coop/events.html if you have not already done so. Also, make sure to forward photos and a summary of your activity so we can include it in future communications. Information can be sent to Kim.VindegSmall@sask.coop.
If you have not planned an event for the Saskatchewan Co-operative Week of Volunteering yet, it is not too late! Events do not have to take place only during this week, or be completed during this week. You can still plan something special to mark IYC, a once in a lifetime chance to celebrate co-operatives! We wish you all a successful Co-operative Week of Volunteering!
Globe and Mail Publishes 8-Page Information Feature about Co-operatives
On Tuesday, May 15, 2012 the Globe and Mail newspaper published an 8-page information insert about co-opertives and the International Year of Co-operatives.
Entitled "The Power of Co-operatives", the feature begins with an article about the ethical values of the co-operative movement and the co-operative principles. The feature goes on to highlight various types of co-operatives including credit unions and agricultural co-operatives. Also profiled is the interational development work done by the co-operative sector. The feature ends with an article about the International Summit of Co-operatives in Quebec City.
The Co-operators release 2011 Sustainabiity Report
The Co-operators has recently released its 2011 Sustainability Report. The 66-page document, called Take a Closer Look, details their Sustainability Strategy and progress and is available on line.
Harold Chapman Memoir Published
The Centre for the Study of Co-operatives is pleased to announce the co-publication, with well-known co-op leader and developer Harold Chapman, of Sharing My Life: Building the Co-operative Movement, Harold's memoirs.
Ordering information can be found on this brochure advertising the book. SCA also has a limited number of copies available at our office for $20 each.
Sustainable Co-op Financing: New Ways for New Times
“Risk and cost are the two critical factors in any financing. In a tough economy you need to maximize flexibility, and minimize cost,” says Garth Rustand, Executive Director of the Investors-Aid Co-op of Vancouver.
“Finance Your Co-op: New Ways for New Times” is a new consumers e-guide from Investors-Aid and CDI that gives start up and existing co-ops a comprehensive look at new and sustainable ways to finance. Preview the table of contents here.
Workshops and advisory services are also available to help you find the best options for your
co-op. You can email Investors-Aid for a free copy of Finance Your Co-op at info@investors-aid.coop.
Saskatchewan Credit Unions Share YouTube Video
The Saskatchewan credit union system recently produced a short YouTube video. The message reflects the collective voice of 60 credit unions that serve 508,000 members in 270 communities throughout the province. In particular, Saskatchewan Credit Unions look to the provincial government to commit to building financial literacy into the education curriculum as a core requirement for all Saskatchewan students.
SCA Chair cites "dark days" for co-ops in StarPhoenix/Leader Post articles
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association Board Chair Beryl Bauer was featured in an article that ran in the Saskatoon StarPheonix and Regina Leader Post on April 16, 2012. Commenting on recently announced federal budget cuts to the Co-operative Development Initiative and rumored cuts to provincial co-operative development funding, Mr. Bauer said the cuts are odd, because SCA shares the governments goal to "develop business and grow the province".
Co-operative Development Foundation IYC Campaign Begins with Major Donations
In celebration of International Year of the Co-operatives 2012, the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF) has launching a campaign to raise $12 million for global co-operative development over the next four year to help alleviate poverty by building and strengthening co-operatives in the developing world. The Build a Better World campaign, announced at the beginning of March, has already raised more than $1.4 million from its members, including the Co-operators, Federated Co-operatives Limited and Gay Lea Foods.
The Co-operators has committed $500,000 to the CDF campaign in support of international co-operative development, and a further $500,000 to the International Co-operative Alliance Global Development Co-operative, a fund developed by the UK's The Co-operative Bank and the International Co-operative Alliance (IYC).
"Throughout the developing world, co-ops are supporting local economies by producing much-needed products and services while creating jobs and developing people's skills," said Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of The Co-operators. "We're pleased to lend our support, particularly during the International Year of Co-operatives, to help build a legacy that will make a real difference in people's lives for many years beyond 2012."
Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) has also committed $500,000 to the Build a Better World Campaign on behalf of its employees and the member retail co-operatives that comprise the Co-operative Retailing System (CRS) in Western Canada.
"Federated Co-operatives Limited is pleased to be part of this effort," according to FCL President Glen Tully. "Federated Co-operatives Limited and the CRS have made an enormous difference in the lives of people in the communities we serve throughout Western Canada," he said. "We are fortunate to live in a safe and prosperous country, and we are proud to share some of our good fortune to help people in other parts of the world work their way out of poverty."
Gay Lea Foods has pledged $400,000 to the campaign.
Two Saskatchewan MPs highlight the International Year of Co-ops in the House of Commons
Ray Boughen (MP for Palliser) and Ed Komarnicki (MP for Souris-Moose Mountain) have each made statements in the House of Commons recently, highlighting the International Year of Co-operatives. Their statements can be read here:
http://openparliament.ca/debates/2012/3/2/ed-komarnicki-1/only/
http://www.canada2012.coop/assets/files/statement_ray_boughen2.pdf
MLA David Forbes Encourages the Legislature to Celebrate the International Year of Co-operatives
David Forbes, NDP MLA from Saskatoon Centre rose in the legislature recently to encourage the government to continue to support the co-operative movement in Saskatchewan. The Hansard recorded his comments as follows:
"Mr. Speaker. The United Nations has proclaimed 2012 as the International Year of Co–operatives to highlight the contributions of co–operatives to socio–economic development, in particular recognizing their impact on poverty reduction, employment generation, and social integration. In fact United Nations Secretary–General Ban Ki–moon says, and I quote, “Co–operatives are a reminder that it’s possible to pursue both economic viability and social responsibility.”
Mr. Speaker, it is impressive that one–third of the province’s top 100 businesses are co–operatives with 1 million members in Saskatchewan alone.
Now the Saskatchewan Co–operative Association has a lot planned in celebrating this year, including the official launch in January and the Co–operative Week of Volunteering from May 28th to June 3rd where co–ops are encouraged to adopt a community project.
Later this year, there’ll be a week of activities in October as part of Co–op Week, and in November, the Saskatchewan Co–operative Association will be hosting the Co–operating to Build a Better West conference in Saskatchewan.
Mr. Speaker, we know when so many people are dissatisfied with an economic system dominated by profit–driven enterprises, the time has never been better for the promotion and growth of the co–ops. It is imperative we continue to support the co–operative movement here in Saskatchewan.
And I ask all members to join with me in celebrating the Year of Co–operatives, and I hope many are able to attend their many events throughout the year. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker."
New Social Studies 8 Resource Supports UN Declaration of the International Year of Co-operatives
With the United Nations’ declaration of 2012 as the
International Year of Co-operatives, the Public Legal
Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA) and
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association (SCA) have teamed
up to create a new learning resource for Saskatchewan
schools.
All 4 Each: A Unit to Empower Co-operative Consciousness explores the legal and operational frameworks of co-operatives. Using a Saskatchewan context, it is specifically designed to meet learning outcomes of the new Social Studies 8 Curriculum. All 4 Each is available at no charge to teachers across Saskatchewan. PLEA and the SCA will be present at teachers’ conferences across the province this spring to introduce this resource to Saskatchewan teachers. As well, the curriculum is available as a digital download here.
Saskatchewan IYC Launch Draws Large Crowd and Media Coverage
A crowd of about 150 people packed into the Bistro on January 12, 2012 to mark the Official Saskatchewan Launch of the United Nations International Year of Co-operatives. Co-operators from around Saskatchewan, Provincial Government representatives, media, as well as youth from Ecole Monseigneur De Laval and children from Gard'Amis and Creative Corners Childcare Co-operatives all came together to celebrate and launch the year.
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association and the Conseil de la coopeération de la Saskatchewan, along with SCA's International Year of Co-operatives Committee planned the event. Saskatchewan's Minister of Government Services, Laura Ross, brought greetings on behalf of the Government. Beryl Bauer, Chair of SCA's Board of Directors, and Norbert LePage, CCS's IYC Ambassador also brought greetings.
CCS's IYC Ambassador, Norbert LePage, Minister of Government Services, Laura Ross, and SCA Board Chair, Beryl Bauer, at Saskatchewan's International Year of Co-operatives Launch
Check out the media coverage of the event:
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Global Regina
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Radio-Canada - the IYC coverage is the beginning of Part 2 of 5 of the January 12 broadcast
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Regina Leader Post
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L'Eau Vive and Access Communications Co-operative Ltd. were also on the scene at the event. Access will be producing a public service announcement from what they filmed, which will be aired around the province throughout IYC.
Co-operative Manpower to Build Dreams
They say “if you build it, they will come.” Borderland Co-op and Conexus Credit Union are partnering to do just that in the community of Moosomin.
The two organizations will provide co-operative manpower as the community works to build a permanent football/soccer field with lights and a storage facility. Volunteers will be working side by side during Co-operative Week of Volunteering May 28 – June 3, 2012.
This year has been designated International Year of Co-operatives. To help celebrate this event all co-operatives in Saskatchewan are encouraged to adopt a community project and help out during the Co-operative Week of Volunteering.
“After a 32 year absence, football came back to Moosomin in 2011, due to the hard work of a small group of volunteers,” says Jason Bender Conexus vice-president retail services, southeast region. One of those volunteers was Jason Schenn who is also the general manager of Borderland Co-op. “With Jason’s initial background work as a volunteer and a partnership with Borderland Co-op, Conexus Credit Union can work to build a lasting legacy for the young people of our community.” The field will also be shared with the local soccer community.
Borderland Co-op and Conexus Credit Union are excited to work together on seeing this program succeed and thrive in our community. It’s a tremendous opportunity to keep our youth involved and active. This truly is an example of the theme of the International Year of Co-operatives which is Co-operative Enterprises Build a Better World.
Community Hub to be Revitalized with Co-operative Spirit
The town of Mossbank is set to be revitalized through the work of two local co-operatives.
Conexus Credit Union and Southland Co-op have plans in place to work together to give the Mossbank Community Hall a facelift.
“The hall is the hub of our community, but it is in need of some repairs,” says Jan Craig Conexus Credit Union Mossbank branch manager. “We hold cabarets, a dinner theatre and community Christmas program in the hall and it’s also a place for dance and zumba classes and provides a warm place for residents to get some exercise while walking during the winter months.”
The two organizations will provide co-operative manpower to help replace toilets and sinks and flooring in the bathroom as well as painting the interior of the hall.
This year has been designated International Year of Co-operatives. To help celebrate this event all co-operatives in Saskatchewan are encouraged to adopt a community project and help out during the Co-operative Week of Volunteering which will run from May 28 - June 2, 2012.
“In true co-operative spirit Ken Bahuaud, general manager of the Southland Co-op from Assiniboia will be helping us with the upgrades,” adds Craig.
Southland Co-op and Conexus Credit Union are excited to work together on this community project and keep the community spirit alive and well in Mossbank. Having two co-operatives come together to create a common goal is another great example of how Co-operative Enterprises Build a Better World.
SCA in the News
The November 10, 2011 issue of the Clark's Crossing Gazette features the article "Martensville seniors explore affordable housing options". The article references a presentation made by Fred Khonje, SCA's Co-op Development Officer, who presented to a group of 50 concerned Martensville residents at a pulic meeting held November 9. Fred discussed co-operative housing as an option to create more affordable housing for seniors in the community.
Saskatchewan Youth Design Postcards to Celebrate IYC 2012
Celebrate International Year of Co-operatives 2012 with a set of co-operatively themed postcards. Each postcard in the set was created by a talented participant of the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program this past summer. The distinctive designs, depicting aspects of IYC 2012 celebrations as well as the contributions that co-operative and credit unions make to Saskatchewan, will gain attention no matter the recipient. The set of ten unique postcards are printed in full colour, shrink-wrapped in clear plastic and are available for $5.00 plus shipping. All proceeds go to the Saskatchewan Co-operative Youth Program’s IYC 2012 events. Contact us to order!
Battlefords News-Optimist Profiles CMAP Recipient, Lisa McEachern
Co-operative Merit Awards receipient Lisa McEachern was featured in a recent article, Local entrepreneur earns leaders award, in the October 28 edition of the Battlefords News-Optimist. Congratulations, Lisa!
The Co-operators Releases Guide To Sustainable Meetings
Did you know that the average meeting produces 20 pounds of garbage per person each day? The Co-operators has created a 34-page online guide that will help you make your meetings more environmentally sustainable. "Documents like this guide remind us to do the little things that, we hope, will become second nature over time," said Kathy Bardswick, president and CEO of The Co-operators. "This is information that applies to everyone, and our hope is that others interested in making a difference will make use of it." Go to www.cooperators.ca/static/pdf/en/Sustainability/guide-to-sustainable-meetings.pdf to download the guide.
Understanding Co-operative and Non-Profit Law
Saskatchewan Co-operative Association and Le Conseil de la cooperation de la Saskatchewan recently commissioned Robert Dobrohoczki to write a paper, fact sheet and article to clarify the relationship between co-operative law and non-profit and chartiable status in Saskatchewan. Visit the "Other Resources" page on our web site for this information and other helpful links and videos.
First Nations Co-op Proposed Organic Shift
The Saskatoon Star Phoenix has an article about the Muskoday Organic Growers Co-op growing organic produce. To read this article visit the Star Phoenix website at: http://www.thestarphoenix.com/life/First+Nations+proposes+organic+shift/4245698/story.html
Co-op Housing Video
This video was made by a 14-year old on the benefits of a housing co-op. Click here to watch the video.
Social Media Webinar Presentations and Resources
A variety of presentations, information sheets and examples of social media policies are available on Canadian Co-operative Association's website at http://coopscanada.coop/en/orphan/smwebinarresources.
Podcast Available: The History, Reality, and Future of Co-operatives
A new podcast featuring John Restakis is now available. John Restakis is the author of Humanizing the Economy - Co-operatives in the Age of Capital. Active in the co-op movement for 15 years, currently he is the Executive Director of the BC Co-operative Association and has been a consultant for co-op development projects in Africa and Asia. John will be the keynote speaker at the Saskatchewan Community Economic Development and Co-operatives Conference on April 8, 2011.
Virtual Exhibit Launched
The Centre for the Study of Co-operatives and the Diefenbaker Canada Center at the University of Saskatchewan have recently launched an on line exhibit called "Building Community: Creating Social and Economic Well-Being". This exhibit was created to inspire you and to help you imagine what might be possible in your own community by exploring what is happening in others. Themes include Building Sustainable Communities, Building Engaged Communities, Building Enterprising Communities and Building Inclusive Communities.
