About the Awards
The Co-operator of the Year Awards are part of COCHF’s three-year awards cycle, following the Century of Co-operation Awards (2023) and the Service Awards (2024). These awards celebrate individuals or groups whose contributions strengthen their housing co-op, the broader co-op movement, or the wider community. Nominees should embody co-operative values and principles through their dedication, innovation, and leadership.
2025 Award Categories
- Youth Co-operator of the Year: For any youth under 30 that live in a COCHF co-op and have made outstanding contributions to their co-op or community through youth or general initiatives.
- Mark Paul Co-operator Award for Excellence: Honouring individuals or groups who demonstrate excellence in advancing co-operative values, projects, or community initiatives that significantly impact the sector.
- Co-op Volunteer of the Year: Recognizing directors or members who give tirelessly to their co-op and community through leadership, innovation, or consistent service.
- Staff Member of the Year: Celebrating COCHF co-op staff who demonstrate exemplary service, dedication, and commitment to their co-op and community.
- Sector Appreciation Award: Recognizing a person, group, or organization (not limited to COCHF members) that has significantly advanced the growth or sustainability of the co-op housing sector.
Basis for Nomination (examples)
- Embodying co-op values and principles.
- Leading or participating in initiatives that advance co-operative principles.
- Consistently helping others without being asked.
- Supporting their co-op through crises or challenges.
- Organizing activities that strengthen community.
- Demonstrating innovation or better ways of doing things.
- Promoting co-op actions that positively impact the broader community.
- Achieving results that are highly valued by their co-op.
Award Presentation
Awards were presented at the COCHF Member Appreciation Event on November 15, 2025.
