Become a Member/Owner

Members own the Franklin Community Co-op and join by purchasing shares of stock.

To become a member/owner you must purchase at least one share of stock at $175 per share. This is a one time purchase and represents your ownership. If at any time you with to withdraw your membership, you can redeem your stock for the full amount invested, as per our bylaws.

Pick up a form at either co-op location.

Investment is easy!

There are three options for payment plans:
   • Full payment - Invest the full investment of $175 and receive a Co-op shopping bag in appreciation.
   • Plan 1 - Initial investment of $50 for the first year and $25 per year for the next five years for a total investment of $175.
   • Plan II - $10 per month for the first five months, then $25 per year until the full $175 membership is paid.

Member shares are owned by individuals.  As many as three additional adult household members are eligible for member benefits if they reside at the same address.

Member shares are fully refundable as per our bylaws. Benefits are available immediately after the first investment.

Everyone can join!

If investment of the share amount would create a hardship for you, the co-op has reduced or deferred equity shares available. Please request an application at  the Member/Customer Services Desk at  Green Fields Market or the front register at McCusker's Market.

Everyone can shop!

Even if you don't become a member/owner, you are welcome to shop. You don't have to be a member to go co-op!

Voting Rights

Each stock holding member is entitled to a vote in elections for the Board of Directors and other decisions made at the annual meeting or special membership meetings. Members may also attend Board meetings and may vote on decisions made there.

Discounts

As a member/owner you share in the profit of the co-op. This is distributed as a 2% discount at the register. Members receive a 2% discount on store purchases.

Participation

There is one regularly scheduled Annual Membership Meeting (the first Sunday in March). All members are encouraged to attend. We review the finances of the past fiscal year, elect one-half of the Board of Directors, vote on issues subject to membership approval, and discuss any other issues that are pertinent. We share a meal, host speakers and entertainment.

Elections

Interested members can participate by running for election, attending the Board of Directors meetings or serving on a committee.

Ideas

Your ideas are always welcome by staff; committees and the board. Speak directly to someone, write a proposal or attend a board meeting. Suggestions are welcome in the suggestion book in the stores or by making a comment via the Contact Us tab. Communication and feedback are essential to the functioning of a healthy co-op.

Work Option

Members may apply to work in the store or on a committee. Working members contribute to the efficient operation of the co-op. Working member discount privileges - 10% on purchases - are given to the household of a member if the adults fulfill the following work requirement and are current on their equity payments: 2 hours per month per adult in the household. "Super-worker" jobs are specific jobs that require a greater time commitment. Super-workers receive a 15% discount. To start, attending a Working Member Orientation is needed. Upcoming orientations are posted in the Member Work Books at each store where you can sign up. They are also listed on the Calendar Page.