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Most cooperative organizations have websites you can browse for more information. Such organizations and coops can offer helpful links and newsletters, information, books and publications, financial news, mission, company history, business and social events, meeting schedules, trade news, careers, member associations, and how-to-join guidelines. Many cooperative directories list thousands of public and private organizations, searchable by location, name and address, size, statistics, non-profit or for-profit status, services, or meetings and seminars. Some of these sites charge a fee for the information, while others are free. Before choosing a cooperative to join, target organizations that appeal to you and offer exactly what you want, whether you’re interested in banks, housing, retail shopping, electrical, business, rural land, industrial, agricultural, telephone utility, non-profit, farms, factory, non profit, community, federal, social, consumer, or buying and building cooperatives. Make appointments with each organization, provider, or coop company. While there, make sure the office is well maintained and clean. Meet with staff and take note if staff members are helpful and accommodating. Speak with the organization members about their efforts and mission, and whether there is a place for you in their organization. Find out if the cooperative is part of a local, national, or international entity, with any affiliations. Make sure the organization’s mission gels with your vision. Ask about any regular meetings you must attend as part of the cooperative, whether the coop involves housing, business, or shopping. Before committing to a cooperative, keep in mind the organization’s location, mission, reputation in the industry, background, meeting schedule, business and social events, provider information, and fees.
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