May 7, 2010
(Red Deer, Alberta) – On May 25, citizens are invited to learn about the many applications of community co-operatives, and how these can positively impact the economic development in our region.
“People are often familiar with local co-operatives, such as the Red Deer Co-op or Servus Credit Union,” said Amanda Ens, community facilitator with The City of Red Deer. “At upcoming sessions, we’ll be discussing how to apply a co-operative structure for other uses, which can include everything from housing to childcare to employment opportunities.”
The Alberta Community and Co-operative Association (ACCA) will be presenting at the two sessions on May 25. Participants will learn how the co-operative model is distinct, how it is being applied, why co-operatives help community economic development, and steps and resources to start a co-op.
In addition to providing useful information, organizers have established another benefit of the sessions, as they will be using the funds raised to develop a scholarship for further learning. “The cost of the sessions is $30 per person, and we’ll be putting all of this money into a scholarship fund,” said Ens. “Depending on the amount raised, we’ll be sending one person – hopefully two – to the 2010 Summit on a People Centered Economy in Ottawa.”
Scholarship applications may be requested when participants register for the co-op information session, and the scholarship application deadline is Monday, May 17. Successful applicants will be notified one week prior to the conference, which will run from May 30 to June 1 in Ottawa. The 2010 Summit on a People Centered Economy is hosted by the Canadian Community Economic Development Network. The scholarship selection committee will be made up of representatives from The City of Red Deer, Community Capital, Alberta Community and Co-operative Association and Red Deer and District Community Foundation.
The public is invited to attend either of the Exploring Co-operatives sessions, which will be held on:
Tuesday, May 25 Tuesday, May 25
12 – 3 p.m. 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Crimson Star Room, 2nd Floor City Hall Crimson Star Room, 2nd Floor City Hall
4914 – 48 Avenue, Red Deer 4914 – 48 Avenue, Red Deer
Lunch included in registration fee Supper included in registration fee
For more information or to register, please contact Pat Smith with Community Capital at 403-340-1323 or bccedm@incentre.net.
-end-
For more information, please contact:
Amanda Ens
Community Facilitator
Social Planning, The City of Red Deer
403-342-8102
amanda.ens@reddeer.ca
|
