aka 'How we keep the co-ops running'

We keep our costs low because members run the day-to day operation of the house (keeping the kitchen stocked with food, cooking the meals, cleaning the house, gardening, recycling, etc).  Everything that needs to get done is divided into "workshifts".  Every resident of the room and board houses is expected to contribute 5 hours per week to complete workshifts.  By setting up an orderly division of labor, we can better insure that everyone does their share and no one gets stuck with all the work. Everyone contributing this small amount of labor not only helps to keep down the costs of living in the co-ops but also increases members’ involvement in their housing community and gives them control of its condition. Frequently the less desirable jobs are given extra credit in terms of the hours they count for. All members are assigned workshifts by the house Workshift Manager according to their schedules and preferences.

Gardening at Rochdale.

Residents of the apartments are required to contribute between 6 and 12 hours per semester.

Additionally, houses have some members do their workshifts in Central Office (clerical/bookkeeping), Central Kitchen (food distribution), the Board of Directors (the greater co-op council), and Administrative Committees. These positions offer co-opers experience which may be useful later when applying for jobs or graduate school.

Finally, the co-ops offer rent rebates for House and Central Level positions. These include receptionists, workshift managers, bookkeepers and house managers. If you are interested, inquire at the Central Office or browse the USCA job listings.