Passion for Possibilities

This groundbreaking volume on British Columbia’s co-operative movement explores the relationship between historic and contemporary co-operatives and the communities in which they are located. Co-operative ventures have played a part in the province’s economy since the 1890s — from agricultural, fishing and financial co-ops of the 1970s and today’s eco-tourism and artisan co-operatives.

A Passion for Possibilities presents case studies from eight communities across British Columbia. Past and present co-operatives in the Cowichan Valley, Malcom Island, Dawson Creek, Comercial Drive in Vancouver, Prince Rupert and the Okanagan, Vanderhoof and Nelson regions are discussed. Each case study explores the formation and variety of co-operatives in the context of the social and economic development of the community. The impact of co-operatives on the local and regional economy is examined, as well as factors contributing to the growth or challenges faced.

A passion for Possibilities is an important work describing BC’s historic and contemporary co-operative activity. By exploring the connections between co-ops and communities, A Passion for Possibilities affirms the value of the co-operative model as an effective way for communities to organize to meet individual and collective needs.

Editor: Joy Emmanuel

Publisher: New Rochdale Press

Year: 2007