We’ve been building community since 2003
Our Roots
Cooperative Roots was founded by members of the Berkeley Student Cooperative in 2003. They founded an organization using a nonprofit housing cooperative model. They purchased a home in Berkeley with the help of many organizations including Seven Generations Land Trust. They retrofitted and remodeled the building to make the home sustainable and fit for community living. Today, we continue to explore ways to carry out our mission.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to building sustainable, affordable housing, empowering people to create democratic cooperatives, and strengthening local communities through shared resources and education.
Our Homes
We own 2 neighboring houses in South Berkeley. Both houses are democratically run cooperatives. We have shared living space, meals, and participate in consensus decision-making. We do not have a landlord and are responsible for stewarding our homes and maintaining the space for generations to come.
Our Principles
We value self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity. We believe in honesty, openness, social responsibility, and caring for others.
Voluntary and Open Membership
Co-ops are voluntary organizations, open to anyone willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without discrimination.
Democratic Member Control
Co-ops are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies and making decisions.
Member Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably to the the co-op’s capital. Usually the co-op owns part of that capital to maintain the co-op, support its members, and fulfill its mission.
Autonomy and Independence
Co-ops are autonomous, self-help organizations. If they parter with other organizations or raise money, they make sure their members continue to have democratic control and keep their autonomy.
Education, Training, and Information
Co-ops provide education and training for their members so they can contribute to the co-op. They inform the general public, especially young people and opinion leaders, about cooperation.
Cooperation and Community
Cooperation between co-ops benefits members and strengthens the co-operative movement. While focusing on member needs, co-ops work for the sustainable development of their communities.