I’m a card-carrying member of an elite group, a membership-based organization that rarely makes national or local news. I joined in the late 1980’s, and I still proudly have the card. One thing that I’m proud of is that it’s so secret. In fact, it’s so obscure; I’ve never met another member. Yes, in full confession, I’m a member of the Oingo Boingo Secret Society.
Over the years, I’ve been a member of many other organizations – museums, gyms, even the PPFA. I’ve known others who are members of Boy Scouts, AARP, the Sierra Club, and the NRA, although probably not all at once. What organizations are you a member of?
Right now in my wallet, I have a membership card issued by the Cedar Falls Food Co-op. But is it really correct to call it a “membership?” The newer cards say “Member-Owner” on them. What’s the difference, and why does it matter?
Member Vs. Owner
In October 2014, when the Cedar Falls Food Co-op became incorporated, volunteers began the work of “growing the membership.” The goal was to get to “1,000 members.” A December 2014 article in this newsletter stated: “Signing Up to Become a Member Is Now Easier.” There were brand new “membership applications.” And even on the website (then and now) it said “Become a Member.” (We even have a Membership Committee.)
From the beginning, the board and the volunteer corps understood that membership wasn’t really the correct term. We weren’t selling membership in the Co-op, we were offering ownership of the Co-op. We understood the difference but the idea of selling an ownership seemed less familiar than membership. And thus, most of our efforts then, and now, continue to be about growing membership. (In fact, our bylaws actually state that these two terms are interchangeable, which allows us to sell using either term.)
However, because membership can mean so many things – from being a member of a secret society of a rock ‘n’ band to being a member of a country club – the term can often be misunderstood. Indeed, one of the most common misunderstandings is that to join the Co-op requires an annual payment, something that is more familiar to a gym membership. (“Oh, it’s time to send in my annual payment!”) Ownership in the Cedar Falls Food Co-op is gained by buying a single share. That’s it – you’re an owner.
Over the years, the leadership of the Co-op has shifted efforts more to using the language of “ownership,” which is the more appropriate way to describe what we’re offering: a chance to co-own one of the area’s coolest businesses.
As an owner, you have a say in the business (Co-op Principle #2), and you have an opportunity to benefit economically when the Co-op pays out dividends. These are significant, and are more beneficial than any membership I’ve been a part of.
So, next time someone asks if you’re a member of the Co-op, tell them that you’re a “PROUD OWNER” of the Cedar Falls Food Co-op!
If you have any questions about ownership, or just want to see my Oingo Boing card, send me an email!
In cooperation,
Tom Wickersham