If you go to the Columinate Library and search CBLD (Cooperative Board Leadership Development), you will find an encyclopedic list of over one hundred governance resources. And a great many of these Library resources have been contributed by Michael Healy. Healy’s work as a governance consultant predates the CBLD program itself. From his Vermont home base, Healy contributed to early iterations of board [...]
A co-op’s democratically elected board of directors embodies both the strengths and a potential Achille’s heel of the cooperative structure. Boards can change their composition annually, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to governance responsibilities. But changes to the co-op board underscore the need for continuity in leadership and policy development. Board training is essential for sustaining the organization’s direction and furthering its mission.
The CBLD Policy Template includes the suggestion that a board of directors should “practice the habits of a successful democracy,” and should “practice, protect, promote and perpetuate a healthy democracy for our Cooperative.” This seems like a tall order, and boards might get stumped trying to figure out how to translate aspirational goals like these into concrete actions. This Field Guide will outline some of the key ingredients of democracy as practiced within the context of a cooperatively owned business. As you read, you may want to reflect on your own board’s habits. Which things do you do well and regularly? In which areas would you like to develop better habits?
