Berendson Academy – Cooperative Education and Support

Free education for housing cooperatives

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Search 1,388 free articles, guides, books, reports, journals, cheat sheets and sample forms for housing cooperatives. Every resource is free to read and download.

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Cover Image Anatomy of a Board Orientation Anatomy of a Board Orientation

BOARD ORIENTATION is the process to inform directors of their roles and responsibilities. Ultimately, the board is responsible for the organization's overall direction and management. A good orientation begets good...

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of a Committee Anatomy of a Committee

The function of the COMMITTEE is to assist the board and staff with programs and activities that advance the organization’s mission and goals.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover image Anatomy of a Conflict of Interest Policy Anatomy of a Conflict-of-Interest Policy

A CONFLICT OF INTEREST is a situation in which someone in a position of trust has a competing professional or personal interest.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of a Motion Anatomy of a Motion

A MOTION is a statement proposed by a qualified member of the board or committee to propose action or take a position. Motions recorded in the minutes indicate whether a...

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of a Policy Statement Anatomy of a Policy Statement

POLICIES supplement the governing documents of an organization. They represent the recommended course of action set by an organization's governing body.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of a Succession Plan Anatomy of a Succession Plan

A SUCCESSION PLAN is a document that guides the governing board in the planned or emergency departure of the chief executive officer or other key positions.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of Consent Agenda Anatomy of Consent Agenda

The CONSENT AGENDA is a concept to save board time. It is a single line on the regular agenda.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy of Meeting Minutes Anatomy of Meeting Minutes

MEETING MINUTES are the permanent record of what took place at official meetings of a board or committee. They report on the actions, or lack of actions, of the board.

Cheat Sheets  Coop Anatomy
Cover Image Anatomy Series book Anatomy Series book

A series of 1-page samples, summaries, and pointers on topics that enhance nonprofit organizations.

Reports  Coop Anatomy

About the library

What you will find

Our Download Center is a one-stop hub for cooperative knowledge, curated from trusted cooperative and housing organizations. Whether you want research-based insight or practical management tools, it supports informed decisions and effective leadership.

Governance and legal frameworks

Understand your duties, responsibilities and ethical obligations.

Financial and business planning

Learn strategies to keep your cooperative strong and sustainable.

Operations and maintenance

Gain insights into maintaining property value and community trust.

Marketing and member engagement

Explore proven ways to build community participation and satisfaction.

Sector-specific studies

Dive into focused research on housing, agriculture, finance and more.