How to join the Co-op

Joining the Co-op is simple.  Just ask any staff member for the signup form, and they’ll guide you through the process.  Alternatively you can download and print it yourself and bring the completed copy in to the Co-op.  Either way, it only takes about five minutes.

When you first sign up, we’ll waive the annual membership fee.  Thereafter, there is a $30 fee each September to cover administrative costs.

Members also pay a one-time equity deposit of $100 (or $150 if signing up for our special “Household” membership), payable in full or in quarterly installments of $25.  This equity deposit supports the Co-op’s infrastructure and long range goals, and is 50% refundable should you decide to leave the Co-op.

For students and for others who cannot afford a monetary equity investment, we offer a program called “Sweat Equity”.  Under Sweat Equity, you can permanently satisfy the Co-op’s equity investment requirement through volunteer labor instead of through capital investment.  Not everyone qualifies for this program, so check the details on the Sweat Equity application here.  (You can also get this form from any cashier at the store.)

To become a working member (including under Sweat Equity), you’ll need to attend an orientation.  Orientation is scheduled multiple times per month and held in the Co-op.  During orientation, you’ll learn all about our store and Co-op structure, and learn all the ways you can participate.