Show Archives – Each For All: Recent Episodes
Show Archives – Each For All
Audra Kruger, Executive Director
In this episode of Each For All: The Co-operative Connection, host Robin Puga dives deep into the world of co-operative development with two inspiring leaders from Co-operatives First. We are happy to welcome Audra Krueger, Executive Director, and Kyle White, Director of Education, who share their journey and insights on the impact of co-operatives in rural and Indigenous communities across western Canada.
Conversation Highlights
- Origins and Mission of Co-operatives First: Audra and Kyle discuss how Co-operatives First was founded in 2016 with funding from Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) and the Co-operative Retailing System. This special funding relationship allows Co-ops First to focus its full attention on the need for co-op development in rural and Indigenous communities, providing essential resources and support for new co-operative ventures.
- Reaching the 100 Co-op Milestone: The team recently celebrated the incorporation of their 100th co-op, a significant achievement that highlights the growing interest and value of the co-operative model. Audra emphasizes, “Behind that 100 are 100 amazing stories of people coming together to solve problems and share the benefits.”
- Impact on Communities: Co-operatives First has made a profound impact on various communities, helping to establish co-ops in sectors such as childcare, housing, and local economic development. Kyle shares, “Seeing these co-ops flourish and make a difference in their communities is incredibly rewarding.”
- Kyle White, Director of Education
Future Directions: The organization aims to continue its work with a focus on creating more childcare co-ops and addressing housing needs. Audra says mentions the goal is to create 15 new childcare co-ops in the next two years, with the potential to double that number. * Advice for Aspiring Co-operators: Both Audra and Kyle stress the importance of having a dedicated and aligned group of people to start a co-op. Kyle advises, “You need people who are going to put in the time, the money, and the passion into a project. It’s not a short-term endeavour.”
To learn more about the incredible work of Co-operatives First and to hear the full interview, listen to the full episode above. If you are interested in reading the transcript, you can read it here.
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In honour of Earth Day, 2024, hosts Robin Puga and Sandy Goldman explored two critical aspects of the social economy: renewable energy cooperatives and food waste reduction. Our guests, Dr. Martin Boucher and Carla Pellegrini, provided in-depth knowledge and passionate discourse on these topics.
Dr. Martin Boucher, President of Community Energy Co-operative Canada
Dr. Martin Boucher: Energizing Communities Through CooperativesDr. Martin Boucher, a Faculty Lecturer at the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy and the President of Community Energy Cooperative Canada, shared enlightening views on the potential of renewable energy cooperatives in Canada. His work focuses on creating impactful changes through community-driven initiatives in the renewable energy sector.
Topics discussed:1. Research with a Co-operative Solution: The Canadian Centre for the Study of Co-ops, with funding from The Co-operators, undertook a census of Renewable Energy Co-ops in Canada (RECs) in 2021 and presented its findings in 2022. 2. Vision of Community Energy Co-op Canada: Dr. Boucher discussed the origin and aspirations of the Community Energy Co-op Canada, a cooperative designed to advocate for and support the proliferation of renewable energy initiatives at the community level. 3. The Role of Renewable Energy in Climate Action: He emphasized the urgent need for accelerated energy transitions to renewable sources like solar and wind, facilitated by community cooperatives to enhance public engagement and investment. 4. Public Policy and Community Energy: A significant focus was on the need for supportive public policies that could bolster the growth and effectiveness of energy co-ops, which currently face various structural challenges. 5. Future Prospects and Actions: The upcoming national census of Renewable Energy Co-ops (RECs) and the strategic planning for their advocacy at the federal and provincial levels were highlighted as crucial steps towards realizing their full potential.
“We’re at a point where an all-hands-on-deck approach is crucial. Community energy cooperatives warm my heart because they represent a collective effort to support renewable energy, which is fundamental in our fight against climate change.” ~ Dr. Boucher
Carla Pellegrini: Reducing Food Waste to Sustain Our PlanetCarla Pellegrini, the Executive Director of the Food Stash Foundation, provided practical advice on reducing food waste alongside insights into her organization’s efforts to redistribute perishable goods and reduce overall food waste in Vancouver.
Carla Pellegrini at Vancouver Co-op Radio studio
Topics discussed:1. Unbelievable Impact of Food Waste: The environmental impact of food waste places it as the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases worldwide. 2. Challenging Aesthetic Standards: Carla urged listeners to reconsider their purchasing habits, highlighting how ‘imperfect’ produce is often discarded despite being nutritionally adequate. 3. Misunderstood Date Labels: She clarified common misconceptions about date labels on food products, advocating for more sensible, waste-reducing practices by consumers. 4. Food Stash Foundation’s Impact: The remarkable achievements of her organization, which rescues millions of pounds of food annually, were showcased, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in sustainability efforts.
“By choosing the less than perfect apple, you’re not just saving it from the landfill, you’re also participating in a global movement to reduce food waste and its hefty toll on our planet.” ~ Carla Pellegrini
Both guests spoke to the importance of cooperative efforts and public participation in addressing environmental issues. As always through “Each For All,” we aim to connect our listeners and readers with the transformative potential of cooperatives and community-focused initiatives for their impact for our sustainable future.
Read the transcripts of the full interviews:
- Dr. Martin Boucher interview
- Carla Pellegrini interview
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Is there a co-operative solution to seniors aging in place with dignity? And receiving support from staff who are recognized as vital partners deserving of respect and agency? You better believe there is!
We first reported on this trend several years ago during the COVID 19 pandemic. Danielle Turpin was a personal support worker assisting seniors in long-term care. The system was in crisis; not enough staff, doing double overtime, leaving vulnerable residents to fend for themselves, it became exhausting and disheartening. She knew there had to be a better way for workers and seniors.
So she started a worker co-op for personal support workers called The Home Care Workers Co-op based in Peterborough, Ontario. Since our first interview in 2022, the co-op has grown and is now the model for other communities who want to help seniors age at home, while also caring for those that assist them. Have a listen.
Back in early 2021, we heard about a small community in western PEI called O’Leary that was rallying to create a co-op for its seniors. The goal was to build a new residence right in the middle of town, where elders lived with some care, while staying connected to the community, stemming the isolation that can often accompany “the golden years.” We caught up with Sally Lockhart, chair of The Community Seniors Co-op for an update. She had lots of great news to share!
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In the heart of Moncton, New Brunswick, lies an extraordinary story of community empowerment, sustainable living, and the transformative power of cycling. La Bikery Co-operative, a hub of social economy and cooperative values, has been making impact in making cycling accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I had the pleasure of speaking with Cory Herc, a board member of La Bikery, to dive into the journey and impact of this vibrant nonprofit, bilingual, community-driven bike shop.
Board members of La Bikery in planning session
Introducing Cory Herc, Board Member
Cory Herc, with lengthy experience in community development and empowerment, has helped steer La Bikery towards its mission of facilitating access to cycling for its community.
“One of the big things that we’ve seen, especially over the last few years, was that realization that community and human connection is one of the crucial things that keeps us feeling good about life.” – Cory Herc
This powerful statement captures the essence of La Bikery’s mission and its success. It’s a reminder of the profound impact community-driven initiatives can have on our lives and the world around us.
Conversation Highlights
- Origins and Mission: La Bikery’s roots trace back to a group of dedicated cyclists, aiming to replicate the accessible, community-centric bike co-ops they experienced in larger cities. Their mission? To lower barriers to cycling in terms of cost, access, and social belonging.
- Expanding the Cycling Community: Cory shares insights into Moncton’s growing cycling scene, thanks in part to La Bikery’s efforts to promote biking as a viable mode of transportation across the sprawling city landscape.
- Innovative Programs and Services: From the recycle-a-bike program to bike lockers and eco-tours, La Bikery offers a myriad of services that go beyond the conventional bike shop model, aiming to foster a culture of cycling and environmental stewardship.
- Building on Community and Cooperation: The story of La Bikery is one of collaboration and collective action. By partnering with the city, organizations, and the community at large, La Bikery exemplifies the strength and potential of cooperative efforts in making a lasting social impact.
Join the Ride
Dive deeper into our conversation with Cory Herc and discover how La Bikery Co-op is peddling towards a more inclusive, sustainable, and connected community. Their story is not just about bikes; it’s about the power of cooperative action and the spirit of community that drives positive change. Read the full interview here.
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Thom Armstrong, CEO, CHFBC in studio at Vancouver Co-op Radio
We had the privilege of hosting Thom Armstrong, CEO of the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC (CHFBC), in studio at Vancouver Co-op Radio. Thom shared insights into the transformative developments and ambitious projects underway in the co-operative housing sector in British Columbia. Topics include:
- BC Builds Program: The exciting launch of the BC Builds program, a groundbreaking initiative blending city participation with provincial and federal funds to spur affordable housing developments. This program is promising to deliver a significant number of homes that are affordable to middle-income families, including 112 new co-operative homes at Davie and Seymour in downtown Vancouver. Its innovative approach includes leveraging public, co-op, and non-profit land, offering $4 billion in affordable construction financing, through provincial and recently matching federal funds.
- Rental Protection Fund: A testament to the power of advocacy and community effort, the Rental Protection Fund, as Armstrong detailed, aims to preserve the affordability of over a hundred thousand homes, including 290 co-op housing units in Coquitlam. Thom addressed the critical balance between new housing development and the preservation of existing affordable units:
“Imagine being focused on new housing supply, so you’re rolling that rug out in front of you, and for every foot of rug you roll out in front, three to four feet are rolling up behind you.” - Co-operative Housing Expansion: Progress on leasehold co-ops in Vancouver, illustrating the ongoing efforts to renew and expand co-op homes to keep valuable land in non-market housing.
- Community Land Trust of BC: The acquisition of two Coquitlam co-ops and the opening of new co-op homes in downtown Vancouver, showcasing the strength of community land trusts in securing affordable housing.
It’s clear that the journey towards affordable housing is multifaceted, requiring the collaboration of various stakeholders. Thom’s discussion points are not just a report on progress; it’s a roadmap for future action, highlighting the importance of innovative programs, community engagement, and the preservation of affordable housing.
While celebrating provincial successes, Thom expressed a desire for national engagement, particularly lamenting the absence of a new federal co-op housing program. However, he maintained a hopeful outlook on future collaborations to enhance the co-operative housing framework across Canada.
Thom’s reflections on the power of collective action and advocacy in securing these advancements underscore the critical role of the co-operative movement in shaping public policy and investment in affordable housing. His vision for housing extends an invitation to imagine a future where housing is not just a market commodity but a fundamental human right accessible to all.
We invite you to dig deeper into Thom Armstrong and the CHFBC’s visionary work by listening to more interviews on Each For All’s archives.
Read the full transcript of this episode.
Visit Co-op Housing Federation of BC’s website: https://www.chf.bc.ca/
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Matthew Enright, GM
In this episode of Each For All: The Co-operative Connection, host Robin Puga sits down with Matthew Enright, the General Manager of the Battle River Railway Co-operative (BRR). BRR is based out of Forestburg, Alberta about 300 km northeast of Calgary. This unique co-operative is an example of local empowerment and economic resilience. Enright shares the inspiring story of BRR’s evolution, its challenges, and the unparalleled benefits of community ownership of this shortline railway.
Conversation Highlights Life after Wheat Pools: Enright describes the challenging economic landscape that Alberta’s farmers faced after the demutualization of Wheat Pools in 2012. This pivotal moment underscored the need for a sustainable, community-driven solution in the agricultural sector. The co-op ensures grain and oilseeds produced in the region get to market. * Formation and Structure of BRR: The genesis story of the Battle River Railway Co-operative is a testament to community spirit and resilience. The co-operative’s structure, including its innovative investment shares and the engagement of its 150 members, paints a picture of a progressive, ‘next-gen’ co-op model. * Challenges and Opportunities: The journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Enright discusses the operational and market challenges BRR has navigated, as well as the opportunities that have spurred growth and community involvement. Besides commodity transportation, BRR offers storage and promotes local tourism. * The Power of Local Ownership*: Perhaps the most striking part of the discussion centers on the impact of local ownership. Enright’s statement, “CN didn’t care. The line would have gone fallow. Local ownership meant so much for our communities along the rail line,” captures the essence of this empowerment.
The story of the Battle River Railway Co-operative is more than a business case; it’s a narrative of community, perseverance, and the transformative power of the co-operative model. It reminds us that in the face of adversity, a collective approach can not only preserve but also enhance local economies and livelihoods.
Find out more: https://battleriverrailway.ca/
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ANAK Publishing Worker Cooperative Ltd. is based in Winnipeg and is the 2023 recipient of The Co-operative Achievement Award by the Manitoba Cooperative Association. (MCA). ANAK’s vision and accomplishments to date are best captured by MCA.
“ANAK Publishing produces thought provoking Filipino-Canadian content; bringing together authors, educators, students and readers to bridge cross-cultural understanding. It believes in building important social capital for its members and the community. Founded in 2010 to address the cultural gap in educational resources, ANAK produces quality work notably in oral history, children’s literature and creative writing anthologies.
ANAK Publishing is an affiliate of the non-profit organization Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) and supports its
mandate to share, learn and preserve Filipino-Canadian heritage and culture through resource, education and mentorship.
To date, it has produced nine original publications and continues to work towards diversifying Canada’s literary landscape; establishing itself in the broader discussion of Canadian identity and diversity by working with educators and advocates in literacy and multiculturalism.”
Daisydee Bautista, manager and worker-owner at ANAK Publishing explains. Have a listen.
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The Manitoba Cooperative Association (MCA) views cooperatives as leaders in building a strong economy and a healthy, socially vibrant province. MCA’s mission is “to enhance and support the development of a united, growing and influential cooperative community in Manitoba.”
From the days of the wheat pools to the Indigenous fisheries cooperatives of today, Manitoba has long been a place where people know the value of working together to solve problems.
Some proud Manitoba coops we’ve featured are NorWest Co-op Community Health, the Westman Communications Group, and Peg City Car Co-op, all enriching the lives of their members and their local communities. Our latest report is on ANAK Publishing Worker Co-operative.
Supporting these co-ops, and all co-ops across Manitoba is Vera Goussaert, Executive Director of MCA and a passionate advocate for the co-operative difference. Have a listen.
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From its mission statement: “Niagara Nutrition Partners (NNP) is committed to supporting sustainable nutrition programs for all school age children in the Niagara Region through the involvement and participation of all community partners in order to maximize healthy child/youth development.”
NNP has been co-ordinating school and community-based food programs since 1998. At this time, more than 24,000 students are served daily at over 200 programs across the region. Funding from the Ontario government has remained stagnant for a number of years. But local partners, like FirstOntario Credit Union, step up annually contributing dollars and volunteers so young people have healthy, balanced meals and snacks at school.
Program Manager Jess Stephenson explains what it takes, and what future actions are needed, to ensure all students across Canada can Eat. Learn. Succeed.
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The person delivering farm fresh apples to a local school is just one of many the Blue Wave Volunteers organized by FirstOntario Credit Union. This financial co-operative, serving communities in the Hamilton/Niagara region, has made a long-standing commitment to ensuring children and youth have healthy breakfasts and snacks to carry them throughout the day. Since 2014, FirstOntario has invested more than $2.3 million into student nutrition programs, working with local partners and its own dedicated employees (plus retired community members) to ensure the critical health and well-being of children so they can learn and succeed.
In this episode, you’ll also hear how FirstOntario, a living wage employer, supports affordable housing, financial literacy and collaborates with its members and area organizations, to build awareness of issues like homelessness, and strengthen local communities. Team members Joanne Battaglia and Tom Irvine explain.
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In the heart of Victoria, British Columbia, a remarkable transformation story has been threaded by The Make House. What started as a 10-year-old sole proprietorship blossomed into a worker co-operative in December 2022. Host Robin Puga had an enlightening conversation with Tanya King, Studio Manager and Board Vice-President, unraveling the journey behind this creative pivot.
From Sole Proprietorship to Co-operative Model: The Make House began as a sole proprietorship. Faced with the prospect of the owner selling the business, the staff team decided to reimagine the future of The Make House. The decision to shift to a worker co-operative model was fueled by a desire to deepen their community roots and engage in democratic decision-making. The Make House, through this transition, redefined its business ethos to better reflect its values and community-focused spirit.
The Role of CWCF and Thrive Impact Fund: The Canadian Worker Co-op Federation (CWCF) played a pivotal role in this transformation, providing essential training and mentorship. These resources helped the team navigate the complexities of shifting to a co-operative structure. Furthermore, the Thrive Impact Fund supported them with startup funding and grants, crucial for the stages of their cooperative journey.
The Structure of the Co-operative: The Make House is not just a business but a collective dream of five worker-owners who also serve on the board. This structure exemplifies the co-operative principle of democratic member control, with other workers progressively moving towards membership.
Threefold Impact: The Make House’s commitment extends beyond just business. Their operations are rooted in creating a threefold impact:
- Community Engagement: By being a vibrant community space offering classes and events.
- Economic Impact: Through the promotion of economic activities within the community.
- Ecological Responsibility: Emphasizing sustainable practices in their operations.
Services and Offerings: The Make House stands out as a creative hub, offering a range of classes, alongside sales of fabrics, tools, and crafting kits. Their on
line platform extends their reach, allowing them to connect with a wider audience and share their unique offerings beyond local boundaries.
Pearls of Wisdom for Transitioning to a Co-op: Tanya King shares valuable insights for those considering a similar transition:
- Patience and perseverance are vital in navigating the transition.
- Thorough research is crucial to understand the nuances of a co-operative model.
- Be prepared to overcome bureaucratic and logistical challenges, like registering for a business number with the CRA.
- Embrace the learning curve and seek support from organizations like the CWCF.
The Make House’s story is more than a business transition; it’s about stitching a new social fabric based on co-operation, community, and sustainability. Their journey is a beacon of inspiration for others in the creative sector, showcasing the transformative power of the co-operative model.
Feeling inspired by The Make House’s story? If you’re exploring the idea of converting a business into a worker-owned cooperative, connect with the Canadian Worker Co-op Federation or your local co-operative association for guidance and support. And for more inspiring co-operative stories, tune into Each For All: The Co-operative Connection.
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The Gulf Islands Food Co-op was created in 2018 to foster inter-island co-operation and develop new resources and practical supports for food producers and consumers on Galiano, Mayne, Pender and Saturna islands. (the Southern Gulf Islands SGI)
The co-op’s main goals are to help sustainably increase island food production, food security and resilience by encouraging the growing and purchasing of local food.
Its initiatives range from educational programs, such as “healthy soils and regenerative agriculture,” to sharing of local resilient seeds, an Indigenous Venison/Deer workshop, bulk buying of farm supplies, setting up free tables for producers at local markets and supporting growers donating to local food banks.
Project Co-ordinator Nancy Goodman shares more about this unique community-service co-op and what it’s like to be part of the food system on the islands.
Have a listen.
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What do you do when you live in a small town, rely on a particular fitness facility for its “women-only” exercise program, the place keeps changing hands, and the final owner realizes she can’t make a go of it and closes everything down? Well, if you are woman from Kincardine, Ontario, who wants to stay fit, who wants a gym where women feel comfortable to be themselves and work out at their own pace, you join with others, put heads together, canvass the options and eventually create a co-op to run the place yourselves.
That’s what happened in 2015 when a core group of women launched a membership drive, found a new location, got support from a former gym owner, The Co-operators, the Ontario Co-op Association, and each other, then moved forward with lightening speed to open.
Members take care of the facility, train each other and newcomers on the equipment, and give back to the community through fundraising and volunteering.
With its eight-year anniversary coming up in September 2023, this co-op thrives on being member-owned, operated, managed and governed. It offers flexible memberships to visitors and tourists who travel to this Lake Huron locale, known for its beautiful beaches, quaint charms and Scottish traditions.
Anne Bromfield and Ginny Ross, board president and past president, share the story of what members affectionately call “Our Gym.” Have a listen.
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Yeva Skalietska with her book – You Don’t Know What War Is
At 5:10 am on February 24, 2022, Yeva Skalietska, then 12, woke up to the sound of explosions which her Granny said were missiles being fired at Ukraine by Russia.
“I’d gro*wn up hearing about war, but I’d never been in one. I was terrified. None of us was prepared for a war. We just knew we had to leave the apartment and get to the nearest basement. My hands were shaking, my teeth rattling, I felt fear all around me. I realized I was having my first-ever panic attack.”*
These recollections are from the journal that Yeva started when the war began, a place where she could write her thoughts and feelings about what was happening.
Eventually, Yeva and her Granny decided to leave their beloved city of Kharkiv after their apartment building was destroyed. With the help of old friends and family, and new friends like the journalists from the BBC, they made their way to Dublin, Ireland and are now safe within a welcoming community.
Yeva’s diary was published in the fall of 2022. It’s called “You Don’t Know What War Is – The Diary of a Young Girl From Ukraine.”
She wants the world to know how futile war is, how it destroys lives, homes and is especially hard on children.
We spoke with Yeva about her experience and thanked her for bravely sharing this chapter of her life.
If you would like to help the people of Ukraine and displaced Ukrainians in Canada, an excellent resource is the Canada-Ukraine Foundation.
Ukraine flag in wind
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Finally some good news in the affordable housing sector!
Thom Armstrong, CEO of CFHBC
Thom Armstrong CEO of Cooperative Housing Federation of BC joins us in studio at Vancouver Co-op Radio to discuss the latest developments in BC’s ongoing urgent concern for affordable housing. The highlights are the British Columbia provincial government, under new premier David Eby, creating a $500 million Rental Housing Protection Fund for BC. The Fund will protect existing older rental housing stock often sold to investors and displacing tenants paying affordable rents. The fund will be jointly managed and distributed through a newly created non-profit society led by the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA), BC Non-Profit Housing Association‘ (BCNPHA), and the Co-operative Housing Federation of BC (CHF BC). As many of you know, these teams have been leaders under the banner of Housing Central in the past decade.
This is amazing news for affordable housing in BC. We have covered affordable housing with Thom for many years here on Each For All. This was the first time Thom ever said, “We finally got what we asked for!”
Thom shares other news from Ottawa about the support for federal subsidies for housing co-ops (to support co-ops through 2028), the additional co-op land leases renewals in the Lower Mainland, as well as the Community Land Trust’s success with 600 units under construction right now.
Amazing times in the fight for affordable housing in BC. Listen in to Thom for the latest updates.
In the second half of the show, we speak with Randy Oliwa, president of the board, of Pacific Rim Housing Development Co-operative in Ucluelet, BC.
Pacific Rim Housing Development Cooperative promotional photo from website
Ucluelet is struggling like many BC remote and rural communities. AirBnB and investment housing purchases have driven rental markets out of control, making it impossible to find affordable housing to recruit and retain employees.
Randy Oliwa shares the story of a group of local business owners. Not your traditional housing co-op, but one that will create a minimum 40 units of affordable housing in their community. Since 2020, the group has grown to over 11 businesses looking to create the co-op which will fund designing, building and then managing the rental housing development at affordable rates in their community. They call themselves “non-market developers” which is exactly what we’ve learned over the years here on Each For All is one of the surest ways to temper an unaffordable housing market (ie. taking housing out of the speculative market).
The exciting thing about this development plan is that the community and its municipality have already come together in the past to support a similar model for seniors’ independent living accommodations. With a supportive community, we will have to keep our eye on this co-operative endeavour and check in on its progress again soon.
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Robin, Corinne and Danielle during the Each For All interview
Allied Community and Co-operative Shared Services (ACCESS) is “a shared service nonprofit co-operative specifically formed to provide professional administrative back-office support for social purpose organizations”. The newly started nonprofit co-operative provides professional administrative back-office support for social purpose organizations, like co-ops and non-profits. ACCESS currently offers services for:
- Accounting
- Legal
- Managed office IT services
- Website development
- Website hosting (including our hosting company https://cantrusthosting.coop/)
- Human Resources
If you’re interested in finding out more about ACCESS and its service offerings check out their website https://sharedservices.coop/
ACCESS was born of the collective efforts the Alberta Community Co-operative Association (ACCA), British Columbia Co-operative Association (BCCA), Volunteer Alberta (VA), Econocoop. Their goal is to provide member organizations with the variety of services they need to be successful. There are no additional fees except to pay for the services used. This is an easy way to find all the experts for your co-op or non-profit needs and saves you the time of not having to search and vet your own experts. They truly are living the 6th co-operative principle of Co-operation among Co-operatives.
Each For All’s Robin Puga sat down with Danielle Hastings, Operations and Members Services manager, and Corinne Remple, Director of Shared Services, to find out more about this innovative new co-op; have a listen.
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The Each For All team sat down for our annual retrospective on the past year. It was another full year over current events coverage through a co-operative lens.
Summer festivities with the 2022 Each For All team (Robin, Joshua, Dale, Sandy and Blue)
Listen in for some of the highlights from the past year as well as insights into co-operative trends.
Some notable shows we discuss include:
- Equity seeking communities
- Freedom Dream Co-operative Education w/ Christine Clarke
- Colour The Trails w/ Judith Kasiama
- Rotating Savings and Credit Associations (ROSCAs) w/ Dr. Caroline Shenaz Hossein
- African Heritage Food Co-op w/ founder Alex Wright
- Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) w/ CEO Margaret Pfoh
- Abiwin Housing Coop – Pride Week in Ottawa 2022 w/ founding members Henri and Anne
- Changes and challenges to democracy
- Strengthening Democracy w/ Dr. Jennifer Wolowic
- New Brunswick Media Co-op w/ founding member Tracy Glynn
- Ukrainian Invasion on Feb 24th, 2022 – over next month we spoke with:
- Our local Ukrainian community members
- Co-op Development Foundation of Canada staff in the Ukraine
- And broadcast an update on the Ukraine’s agricultural co-ops recorded by AroundTheWorld.coop
- Rogers Communication Outage and profiles of co-op utility companies not affected
- Mornington Communications Co-operative w/ General Manager Ken Naylor
- Westman Communications Group w/ CEO Dave Baxter
- East End Food Co-op closing its doors after 50 years!
- Home Care Workers Co-operative formed in Ontario
- Coverage for co-op conferences
- Association of Co-operative Educators (ACE) guests in studio & Coop Universities w/ Dr. Michelle Stack
- CWCF Keynote Forum – What does the Solidarity Economy offer equity seeking communities?
- CWCF 2022 – Worker Co-op Ignite Presentations
- Updates from the BC Co-op Sector
- BC Co-ops receive $2 million provincial investment
- Housing Central and Co-op Housing Federation campaigning in municipal election
These are just a smattering of the many shows we covered in 2022 on Each For All. A special thanks this year to Sandy Goldman who wrangled the lionesses share of the interviews and show content. And to Josh Peterman who continues to push our skills and quality on production.
And thank you all for listening. We wouldn’t be here without your support!
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The Canadian Worker Co-op Federation annual conference was held in Vancouver, BC. This year’s theme was Collective Power. In this podcast we bring you recordings of the Ignite Presentations from a few of the worker co-operative participants of the conference.
Chris Nichols from Wood Shop Workers’ Co-op receiving acknowledgement for the worker co-op’s supportive employment best practices.
Ignite presenters have a condensed time to convey a story to the audience.The following are fast-paced presentations conducted in five minutes with 20 slides, each slide advancing automatically every 15 seconds. We will hear from:
- Wood Shop Workers’ Co-op
- Co-Active Developments
- La Siembra
- Glitter Bean Café and the International Centre for Co-operative Management
- Sustainability Solutions Group
- Vancouver Renewable Energy Co-op
- CanTrust Hosting Co-operative
- GIA Consulting Co-op
- And a special presentation from Edmonton’s Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op
Chirs Nicols co-owner of the Wood Shop Worker’s co-op will lead out the Ignite worker co-op profiles. They share their story of the worker co-op’s supportive employment best practices, an inspiring story.
Our sincere thanks to the presenters and to the CWCF for permission to rebroadcast these presentations.
Thank you for listening. Below is the iconic Dolly Parton tune which is considered a worker co-op anthem to some folks.
The post CWCF 2022 – Worker Co-op Ignite Presentations appeared first on Each For All.
Why is the Solidarity Economy important to BIPOC communities?
What does the Solidarity Economy have to offer BIPOC communities & other equity-seeking communities? This was the question posed as part of the Canadian Worker Co-operative Federation‘s keynote forum at the annual conference.
This was recorded Thursday, November 17, 2022. Our sincere thanks to the presenters, Dionne, Susanna and Juliet and to the CWCF for permission to rebroadcast these special events.
Facilitator Jessica Provencher kicked off an evening of lively presentations and discussions motivated by the keynote forum question.
Panelists included:
- Black Women Professional Workers Co-op – Juliet ‘Kego Ume-Onyido
- Solid State Community Industries – Dionne Co
- Freedom Dreams – Susanna Redekop
The presentations and discussion was enlightening as much as it was inspiring. We hope you enjoy.
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On September 25, 2022, Hurricane Fiona tore through Atlantic Canada leaving a path of destruction in its wake. It was the costliest and most intense post-tropical cyclone to hit Canada on record. Parts of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador faced torrential rains and winds of up to 160 km/hour. Powerful tidal [...]
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Thom Armstrong, CEO of CFHBC Thom Armstrong, CEO of the Co-op Housing Federation of BC, speaks on the number 1 issue on voter’s minds as they step into the ballot boxes for the municipal elections - Affordable Housing. One way to temper our speculative housing market is to take some housing out of [...]
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The African Heritage Food Co-op (AHFC) was formed so that Black communities in Western New York State, including Niagara Falls and Buffalo, can take ownership of their food system, create jobs and use resources to improve the health and well-being of residents. For too long, the economic and political structures have failed Black residents creating [...]
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On July 26, 2022, the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction put out a press release announcing an unprecedented investment in the BC Co-op sector. It outlines how a $2 million dollar investment from the province was matched by others in the co-op sector. The funds will go to helping co-operative businesses, while expanding [...]
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When a single company, J.D. Irving Limited, with vast interests in forestry, agriculture, food processing, oil and petroleum, transportation and shipbuilding, also owns the major English-language daily newspapers, plus a large number of weeklies, chances are reporting that is critical of its industries and supportive of workers, the environment and human rights, will be scarce. [...]
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Amy Firlotte, Danielle Turpin, Denise Armstrong - co-founders of the Home Care Workers Co-op. Most seniors would like live at home as long as possible with support. Sadly, many end up in long-term care, a system plagued by short-staffing, low levels of funding and other problems that the COVID-19 pandemic only made worse. [...]
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A Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCA) is a group of individuals who act as an alternative financial institution. Each person contributes money towards a common fund, and the funds rotate through members at regular intervals. The member who borrows the funds will eventually repay their portion back into the association so the next member [...]
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On April 15/22, news broke that Vancouver's East End Food Co-op (EEFC) will be closing its Commercial Drive storefront on May 15 after 50 years of serving the community. The co-op itself will remain in place for the time being. Its future will be discussed at the AGM in June. You can show your support [...]
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Westman Communications Group is a consumer co-op that formed in 1977 to bring cable television to southwestern Manitoba and since then has grown to serve 54 rural communities and 25,000 members. Its head office is in Brandon. Besides offering all the latest technology from high-speed internet, TV, streaming and phone services, the co-op ensures its [...]
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Mornington has been serving rural residents in Perth County, Ontario, since 1919. It began as a municipal telephone system using operators and party lines. In 1964 direct dial technology came on board and in 1994, Mornington Municipal Telephone System became Mornington Communications Co-operative. With a head office in Milverton and satellite offices in Stratford, Wellesley [...]
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Agricultural production cannot be disrupted mid-season, mid-process. Farmers are tied to their land and animals. So what happens to agricultural co-ops during war? Sofia Burtak and Iryna Volovyk, co-op developers with Ukraine's Coop Academy, explain what is has been like on the ground. This interview was recorded on March 1 with Sara Vicari of aroundtheworld.coop. [...]
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On International Women's Day, there is war in Ukraine and the world is realizing what that means for us all, for gender equality and for the co-operative movement. CDF programs in Ukraine The Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada has staff in the Ukraine working on the project Supporting Economic Prosperity for Women and Internally Displaced [...]
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When Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, 2022, we reached out to members of the Ukrainian Canadian community for their reaction and guidance as to what all of us, as members of civil society, could do to make a difference. Eugene Lupynis, board member of the Ukrainian Community Society of Ivan Franko in Richmond, B.C. [...]
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On February 15th, our friends at Housing Central hosted a panel discussion titled “A Place to Call Home: Stories of Black Canadians”. We at Each For All are grateful to share this educational discussion with you, our listeners. Panelists Selwyn Jacob, Deborah Dobbins, Rachael Otukol, and El Jones shared a powerful, challenging and enlightening discussion. [...]
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When this aired Canada was in its third week of the convoy protests in Ottawa and across the nation. People in Canada were beside themselves witnessing the unlawful events and the openly displayed symbols of hate and racism. This isn't the democracy we know and love. With all the frustration and confusion we wanted to [...]
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Each For All: The Co-operative Connection is pleased to bring you the keynote speech from this past year’s CASC conference - Dr. Jessica Gordon-Nembhard speaks on Racial Justice and Co-operatives. The Canadian Association for Studies in Co-operation or CASC is a multidisciplinary network of researchers and practitioners whose work involves co-operatives and co-operation. It is [...]
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Freedom Dream Co-operative Education shares knowledge about co-operatives and the solidarity economy from a Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) perspective. Through a series of online and place-based workshops, Freedom Dreams hopes to empower participants with knowledge about the histories and experiences of co-operation among the BIPOC diaspora so that they can see themselves reflected in the co-op movement, especially in the fight for social justice. In addition, facilitators share stories of why they got involved in the co-op movement and how others can create BIPOC-led co-ops.
Founder Christine Clarke says Freedom Dreams is looking for collaborators to co-facilitate workshops with the ultimate goal that the program itself becomes a worker-owned educational co-operative. She says BIPOC co-ops have a rich history of bringing people together especially as a necessary means of resistance and survival. Have a listen.
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"Outside is for everyone. It's time we acted like it!" That was the title of an apology letter from what was then Mountain Equipment Co-op after being called out for only portraying white people participating in outdoor activities. Judith Kasiama, a refugee from The Democratic Republic of Congo, now living in Vancouver, was the one [...]
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How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected the way co-ops do business in Ontario? Are there new ways of collaborating or communicating that are leading to innovation and growth of the sector?
That’s what we put to Erin Morgan, Executive Director of the Ontario Co-operative Association. Have a listen as she shares plenty of good news!
And from plough to pint, London Brewing Co-op is bringing people together for conversation and community building over its array of organic brews and beverages.
This worker co-op has great relationships with farmers, producers, retailers and artists. Founding member David Thuss explains. Cheers!
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Aerial shot of Abbotsford flooded
November, 2021, brought British Columbia terrible storms, floods and mudslides in what already has been a year marked by a heat dome and wildfires. Hit particularly hard was the Fraser Valley, Merritt, Princeton and numerous First Nations communities. The stories of neighbours coming to the aid of those in distress are inspiring. Co-operatives have also been there to provide help in their communities.
Otter Co-op and FCL donations collected for those in need as of Dec 2nd, 2021
In this show, we hear from Jack Nicholson, CEO Otter Co-op. Otter Co-op has been serving the Fraser Valley for 99 years. Many Otter Co-op members were affected by the flood and stores closed. Otter has been fund raising for the Red Cross efforts in the regions! There was wide support from Credit Unions after the floods. We hear from VanCity Director of Community Investment, Andrea Harris, about the Vancity Community Foundation’s Humanitarian Fund. This unique fund has been used on a number of occasions to assist communities in need. Find out more on the Vancity Community Foundation and how Vancity is thinking (rethinking) about climate change.
In the latter half of the show we get an update on affordable housing with Marika Albert of the BC Non-Profit Housing Association, in conversation with James Mainguy from Vancouver Co-op Radio’s The Pulse, morning news show.
If you would still like to help the victims of BC’s floods please visit – https://www.vancitycommunityfoundation.ca/give/donor-advised-funds/vancity-humanitarian-fund The post Co-ops Provide Relief During BC Storms/Affordable Housing Update appeared first on Each For All.
The Social Justice Co-op is a grassroots, non-profit, community co-op, dedicated to speaking out for social justice at home and abroad. It brings people and agencies together around a variety of issues such as fighting climate change, racism, colonialism, food insecurity, and poverty, just to name a few.
All of these efforts take place under the co-op’s “Revolution of Care,” fostering friendships between activists, caring for each other, being generous, and creating community.
Socials 4 Justice, Challenging Car Culture, the Transformative Justice Working Group, and the Zero Waste Action Team, are just some of the projects organized by the co-op and its members. If someone has a cause dear to their heart, they can find like-minded folks at the co-op for discussion, education and perhaps creation of a new action plan.
Kerri Claire Neil and Shannon Fraser explain . Have a listen.
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People in Newfoundland and Labrador have a history of co-operating as they have long made their livelihood from the sea. On Fogo Island, on the rugged North East Coast, residents were asked back in 1967 whether they wanted to leave their beloved island and move to the mainland, or work to create a sustainable community right where they were. Through what became known as the Fogo Process, the community met and discussed ways to pool their energy and resources as boat builders and fishers creating a co-operative for the benefit of all.
In 2021, there are some 90 co-ops in the province, representing 57,000 members, creating 1,400 jobs and bringing in revenue of $800 million annually that goes back in to local communities, according to Dave Walsh, Managing Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Co-operatives. I caught up with Dave during Co-op Week in October. Here’s our discussion.
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It’s Co-op Week! Each For All is excited to be welcoming listeners through Kootenay Co-op Radio CJLY 93.5 FM in Nelson, BC! Our illustrious guest Zoë Creighton helped us make the connection! We are stoked to be syndicated to the Kootenays!
For those who might not know what Co-op Week is all about, the Co-ops and Mutuals of Canada has a great synopsis. Co-op Week is unique to the Canadian Co-op sector and is a time to celebrate co-operative values and what makes us co-operators different!
For this co-op week we catch up with the Kootenays and hear from Zoë Creighton from the Upper Columbia Co-operative Council about the co-operative happenings in that neck of the woods. From the formation of the Golden Co-op Radio , to collaborating with BCCA’s Co-operate Now program, to the evolution of BC’s Co-op Developers network … we hear it all from the person with their finger on the pulse of Kootenay’s co-operative sector.
In the second part of the show Sandy Goldman interviews Cloe Bayeur-Holland from Kaslo Community Fitness Co-op. How did this co-op get started? What does it mean for the community? And how did the Upper Columbia Co-op Council provide support?
Thanks to our guests, Zoë Creighton and Cloe Bayeur-Holland. And thanks to you for listening! Hope you have a wonderful Canadian Co-op Week!
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Getting around Vancouver is becoming increasingly difficult as cars and trucks clog the streets, adding to carbon emissions, noise and frustration. But just look up for a minute and you’ll see a revolution rolling by courtesy of Shift Delivery Coop. With its fleet of pedal powered trikes and electric cargo vehicles, Shift is moving goods across the city in a sustainable way. As a worker-coop, Shift is owned by its members and is democratically governed, giving meaningful employment to its team.
Shift is always innovating and growing through new projects and collaborations. One example is using the coopcycle.org platform to establish a separate restaurant meal and goods delivery service in the Commercial Drive, Gastown, Chinatown and Strathcona neighbourhoods. The other initiative is being part of the new cargo e-bike micro hub project for Vancouver. Business team lead Devan McLelland explains.
Just Eat It: A Food Waste Story was the inspiration for Vancouver teacher David Schein to reduce food waste and feed the hungry. So in 2016, he began rescuing food from local grocers and with a group of volunteers, packed it into boxes of food for nine families. By October 2017, the Food Stash Foundation became a registered charity and today it rescues over 70,000 lbs of food per month, redistributing it to more than 20 partner charities and 100 members who receive weekly food boxes. These efforts are even more vital as food insecurity has been rising steadily over the past number of years made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Former Executive Director Julia Hunter says the food that is rescued would have otherwise been wasted for a variety of reasons including imperfect produce, best before date reached, day-old grain products or items that are not selling fast enough. Ensuring this food does not end up in landfills helps reduce the production of methane which is a greenhouse gas. Greenhouse gases are also emitted in the production and transportation of food. That’s why Food Stash partners with Shift Delivery Coop to deliver its rescued food boxes to members using the Pedal to Plate program. In June 2021 alone, the 74,019 lbs of perishable food rescued saved 63,791 kg of CO2 emissions. Have a listen.
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In Saskatchewan and Alberta, the Delta variant is taking an increasing toll on the lives of residents and the health care system. Elective surgeries, diagnostics, transplants and other treatments, all considered life-saving, are being put on hold as patients, largely unvaccinated, are flooding intensive care beds, only freeing up capacity when one of them dies.
Vaccine hesitancy is rampant in the rural parts of these provinces. But it is also the case for many of the most marginalized, disenfranchised, impoverished residents of Saskatoon and Edmonton. Why is this the case? And what can be done to assist and save lives?
We reached out to fellow co-operators on the front lines of 4th wave to share their efforts and hopes for their communities.
Lisa Clatney is the Executive Director of the Saskatoon Community Clinic, a health co-op serving the downtown and core areas.
Yvonne Chui is the Executive Director of the Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op, a worker co-op in Edmonton supporting immigrants and refugees.
Both co-ops have been featured in past episodes of our program. Their work is invaluable and we thank them. Have a listen.
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Is any federal political party proposing a concrete plan with timelines and resources to move away from colonial-based relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Metis leading to empowerment and self-determination? Or implementing all the calls to action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as well as enacting measures needed to turn Bill C-15, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, into reality?
That’s what we discuss with Terry Teegee, Regional Chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations plus the AFN’s “The Healing Path Forward. Teegee advises asking all political candidates for office: “What actions are you going to take to change relations with Indigenous Peoples?”
We also talk with Cam Fenton, Canada Team Lead of 350.org, about political parties’ plans to deal with the climate crisis, which most people realize is here and now after a summer of fires, unprecedented heat, loss of life, Lytton, B.C., wildlife, habitat, storms and drought.
350 is endorsing federal candidates it considers “climate champions” on the Climate Emergency Alliance website. Have a look.
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