Cooperative Overview

United We Stand, Divided We Fall. (Kentucky State Motto)

Unify Co-Op: Comprehensive Development Plan

This document outlines the framework for establishing the Unify Cooperative Society ("Unify Co-Op"), a multi-stakeholder, non-profit organization in Berea on Big Hill Road in front of the Indian Fort Theater. The historical name of the property is the Indian Fort Outpost.

Defining the Unify Co-Op

Cooperative Business Structure
- Multi-owner: Unify Cooperative will operate under a distributed ownership model. Members will hold legal titles to designated land parcels (e.g., 1 square foot) within the cooperative's property.
- Multiuser: The cooperative's facilities and programs will be accessible to members and potentially the broader community, depending on program design.
- Multilevel: Unify Cooperative will cater to diverse age groups and interests through age-appropriate activities and programs. Dedicated physical spaces or virtual platforms can be developed to meet specific needs.
- Multifunctional: The cooperative will serve a variety of purposes, hosting workshops, art exhibitions, community gardens, educational events, and more.
- Multipurpose: The cooperative space can be utilized for various events, meetings, or gatherings, maximizing its utility.
Ownership and Membership
- Fractional Ownership: Membership is acquired through donations equivalent to the value of a designated land parcel. Members will receive legal titles for their respective shares.
- Active Participation: Maintaining ownership will require active involvement in the cooperative, potentially through volunteer hours or project contributions.
- Membership Dues: Monthly dues will support ongoing operational costs and contribute to the cooperative's development. Consider tiered membership structures with varying benefits to incentivize participation.
Focus Areas: Unify Cooperative will prioritize the following
- Arts & Crafts: Providing dedicated studios, workshops, or exhibition spaces for artists, artisans, and crafters.
- Culture: Celebrating the region's rich heritage through events, displays, or educational programs.
- Community Development: Fostering a sense of belonging and connection through social gatherings, support groups, or volunteer initiatives.
- Environmental Sustainability: Promoting responsible practices through educational programs, community clean-up events, or advocating for eco-friendly approaches.
- Health & Wellness: Offering fitness classes, health workshops, or access to healthy food options. Partnerships with local health providers can be explored.
- Historical Preservation: Preserving and sharing the history of Berea and Big Hill through exhibits, historical reenactments, or educational talks.
- Outdoor Recreation: Organizing hikes, nature walks, or bike rides, leveraging the surrounding natural environment.
- Conservation of Natural Resources: Promoting responsible land management, water conservation, or renewable energy initiatives.
- Tourism Development: Becoming a local landmark that attracts visitors and stimulates the local economy by offering tours, workshops, or showcasing locally-made crafts.
Non-profit & Non-commercial
- 501(c)(3) Organization: Unify Cooperative will seek 501(c)(3) non-profit status, exempting it from federal income tax and allowing tax-deductible donations. Its focus will be on social good and community benefit, not generating profit.
- Indian Fort Outpost Location: The existing Indian Fort Outpost property will serve as the central hub for cooperative activities. Future development plans include major renovations or additions to accommodate planned programs.

Developing Unify Cooperative: A Strategic Approach

1. Refining Vision & Mission:

Develop a clear and concise vision statement encapsulating the long-term aspirations for the cooperative (e.g., "To be a thriving, member-owned community center fostering a vibrant and sustainable Berea-Big Hill region").
Craft a detailed mission statement that outlines the cooperative's core purpose and intended impact (e.g., "Unify Cooperative empowers Berea and Big Hill residents through collaborative ownership, social enterprise, and a commitment to cultural heritage, environmental responsibility, and community well-being").

2. Business Plan Development:

Define the cooperative's operational structure, including the management framework (board of directors, committees) and staffing needs (e.g., volunteers, part-time coordinators).
Outline funding strategies such as membership dues, grant applications, fundraising events, or social enterprise initiatives (e.g., selling locally-made crafts).
Specify membership benefits such as voting rights, discounted program fees, or access to exclusive events.
Identify potential social enterprise activities that align with the cooperative's mission, such as offering eco-tours, selling locally sourced produce, or hosting special fee-based workshops.

3. Foundational Documents:

Articles of Organization: This document will be filed with the Kentucky Secretary of State to establish the cooperative as a legal entity. It will specify the cooperative's name, purpose, registered office location, and the initial members with their designated roles (as may be applicable).
Bylaws: These internal regulations will govern the cooperative's operations and membership regulations based on Robert's Rules of Order, Rochdale Principles, and the Seven Cooperative Principles.

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