reference. Those terms are then approved by co-op members.” “A unique aspect of non-profit housing co-ops is that part of their mission is to create and sustain ‘at-cost’ housing for their members,” Chris continues. “Members participate as equal participants – with one vote per member – in decisions regardless of unit size or income. At general meetings, the membership approves housing charges and also co-op policies. Members are ‘owners’ – they pay monthly housing charges, not rent; they have a voice in all decisions that impact their housing and community; and they volunteer their time on committees or tasks.” “As a core concept, housing co-ops ensure security of tenure that improves social opportunities and helps members address economic hardships during their life cycle. Most importantly, housing coops foster a sense of belonging that encourages mutual support among members of all ages and stimulates engagement across diverse backgrounds – ethnic, cultural, gender and sexual orientation, single parents, couples, seniors, et cetera.” In the case of the FCCHA, encouraging that mutual support and communal engagement was baked into the very planning of the community. Back in 1974, the founding members, in collaboration with a hired architect group, focused on building enclaves with internal courtyards and amenities that fostered both formal and informal community engagement. In addition to creating meeting rooms, the coop designed play spaces where children would feel safe, and where members could have THE CONSTRUCTION SOURCE CANADA
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