HOW TO JOIN

Anyone can join Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op

Buying Shares

Each member is expected to contribute to the working capital of the cooperative, by investing in one share each 90 days until 20 shares have been purchased. Each share costs $10, so the total investment is $200.

When you buy your first share, a non-refundable $10 administrative fee is also collected. However, if you purchase four or more shares upon joining, the administrative fee is waived.

You can buy subsequent shares conveniently at any time, by asking your cashier to add one or more shares to your receipt.

Filling Out a Member Form

When you join, a customer-service clerk will fill out a membership form for you. The form asks for your name, address, driver's license number (so cashiers won't have to ask for it in the future), and your age (if you wish to qualify for a senior discount). If you want an extra card for another person in your household, you will also be asked for the name and driver's license number of that person.

Using Your Member Card

You will be given a permanent member card, which has your account number on it. Each time you check out, the cashier will ask for your card so the account number can be scanned. This allows the cashier to quickly verify that you qualify for the current-member discount.

Investing Your Fair Share

Members who purchase 20 shares are considered to have fully invested their fair share of the co-op's working capital. Once you reach fair-share status, you no longer need to buy shares. Your discount remains in effect for the rest of your life.

Delaying a Share Purchase

You can stop purchasing shares for any length of time, and then resume building your share total. This is convenient when you plan to be out of the area for a while. Your account is never deleted. You do not need to tell us when you plan to be away.

When you return, you do not have to purchase shares for the skipped period. You can just pick up right where you left off. For example, if you buy four shares and then move away for a few years, upon returning you only have to invest in one share (your fifth share) to reactivate your member discount.

In other words, your membership is permanent. Only your member discount is dependent on purchasing a share for the current period.

Checking the Status of Your Account

You can ask any cashier how many shares you have purchased, and when your next share-purchase is due. Each share that you purchase activates your member discount for an additional 90 days from the date of purchase.

You can report changes to your account, such as a change of address, at the Customer Service counter.

Getting a Refund

Shareholders can request a refund of their shares in full by making a written request to, and receiving approval by, the Board of Directors.

Understanding the Two Types of Shares

Your first share is an "A" share, and all subsequent shares are "B" shares. This distinction is unimportant except in obscure circumstances. However, you may hear members and staffers speak of "A shares" and "B shares," so it's good to know the difference.

Preserving Your Confidentiality

Your personal information is treated with respect. It is neither sold nor given to third parties. The co-op mails out a periodic newsletter and an annual ballot to members who have a valid address on file, as well as occasional promotional materials. You may ask to be excluded from all but election-related mailings.