What is a co-op?
SKP Saguaro is a “co-op” RV park. A co-op (short for “cooperative”) is an organization of people who voluntarily form and jointly own a business for their mutual benefit. Unlike traditional businesses, the member-owners of a co-op democratically control the organization, with each member having an equal voice in how the co-op is managed.
Why volunteer?
Our co-op was established in 1990 as a community for RVers to spend time together when they weren’t traveling. As in many other co-ops, one of our founding principles was to rely on the efforts of volunteers rather than paid labor whenever possible. Our founders enshrined this principle in our Bylaws, which require that:
“Members shall share knowledge, labor, and time towards the betterment of the co-op. All leaseholders who spend a substantial period of time at the co-op are expected to serve on one of the committees or in one of the positions which have been established to ensure the smooth running of the co-op.” (Article II, Section 3A)
Our long-standing tradition of volunteering helps keep our operating expenses low, allowing us to offer highly affordable membership buy-ins, modest annual costs, and very reasonable rental rates.
But volunteering in our co-op is also fun and rewarding! You get to meet new people, make new friends, feel a purpose, try new things, and teach your skills to others. Your efforts as a volunteer in any capacity directly help to make this the best community a great place to stay, whether you’re here for many months or just a few weeks at a time.
What can I do as a volunteer?
There are so many ways to contribute your time and expertise to the SKP Saguaro Co-op as a volunteer!
- Serving on a committee (or more than one!) is one way that you can use your life or former career skills to make a difference. We have many different committees, so there is one for almost any interest. Most committees can include remote participants in meetings by Zoom, so serving on a committee is a great choice for members who travel frequently away from the park.
- Working with an “un-committee”. Our co-op’s “un-committees” are working groups that perform important tasks within the park. Unlike the standing committees, they operate less formally and don’t have regular meetings. Most of the “un-committees” report to a standing committee. If you don’t have the time to commit to a standing committee or just prefer doing physical tasks, helping with an “un-committee” may be perfect for you.
- Help out with a project or one-time event, like the annual yard sale or the annual Christmas auction. This lets you experience the rewards of volunteering and help our co-op continue to thrive.
Although all co-op members are expected to volunteer in some capacity, we also welcome long-term and short-term renters as volunteers on most committees and to help with all “un-committees” and projects. Volunteering as a renter is a great way to make friends and become part of our community!
I’m ready to help! How do I get involved?
It’s easy to find the volunteer opportunity that’s right for you:
- Visit the Volunteer Fair (usually held in early January each year) to talk directly with representatives of many of our committees to learn first-hand what they do.
- Check out the “Help Wanted” board in the Clubhouse for short-term projects that need extra hands.
- Attend a committee meeting as a guest. Almost all of our committee meetings are open to guests. Meetings are usually announced on Channel 5 (both on the park cable TV system and online) as well as on the monthly park calendar (available from the office). Drop in and learn first-hand how the committee works and what it does.
The success of the SKP Saguaro Co-op depends on the contributions of its members and guests. Thank you for doing your part to help our park continue to be one of the best places in the country to stay!