Bedford & Bowery

Immigrant Workers are Using Co-Ops Like a Boss

All co-ops are owned by the workers, who decide collectively on their own salaries and benefits, their strategies and their decision making processes. “Nobody is a boss over here,” explains Lopez.

Grassroots Economic Organizing

Cooperative Movement in Sunset Park Thriving: United Handymen Launches Newest Worker­Owned Business

The members’ reasons for joining a cooperative are many, but all look forward to increased economic stability and a sense of collective ownership in their work. Jose Benitez explains, “it breaks the scheme of traditional work. Because we are representatives of our own business, it makes us feel valued.” Mutual aid within the cooperative is also a big factor. “We learn from each other and we feel support from all of the colleagues,” shared Manuel.