About Us

A Note From Our Executive Director
Aisha Everett, CUDE
There is something remarkable about stepping into a room full of people who already believe what you believe.
That is exactly how I feel as I begin my journey as Executive Director of the Cooperative Council of the Carolinas.
It is a genuine honor to serve this organization. One built on 91 years of dedication to the cooperative movement and the communities it sustains across the Carolinas. I do not take that legacy lightly, and I am energized by everything that lies ahead.
What drew me to this work is the same thing that makes cooperatives so enduring: the understanding that we are stronger together. The Sixth Cooperative Principle, Cooperation Among Cooperatives, is not just a guiding value for me, it is a way of life. It reminds us that cooperatives do not compete with one another; we are meant to build each other up. When an electric cooperative in rural North Carolina thrives, when a credit union in South Carolina opens doors for a family, when a food cooperative puts fresh produce in a neighborhood that needs it - every one of us benefits. That is the power of this movement, and that is the power of CCC.
“Cooperatives do not compete with one another; we are meant to build each other up.”
To the cooperatives across the Carolinas who have championed this organization through your membership, your leadership, your volunteers, and your trust: thank you. Your continued investment in CCC is an investment in every cooperative that comes after you, and in the young leaders we are growing through programs like Cooperative Leadership Camp.
My commitment to you is simple: I will listen first, lead with purpose, and work every day to make CCC a resource you are proud to be part of. We have an incredible foundation. Now it is time to build.
I look forward to connecting with each of you, across industries, across both states, and across every corner of this beautiful cooperative ecosystem we share. Please reach out, come to an event, and bring someone new into the fold.
Together, we go further.
What is the Cooperative Council of the Carolinas?
The Cooperative Council of the Carolinas (CCC) is an association comprised of and in support of cooperatives in North and South Carolina.
CCC’s mission is to educate, connect and promote cooperatives.
We fulfill our mission by creating and hosting various events throughout the year. Check out our events here!
CCC's vision is to empower cooperatives.
Founded in 1935, CCC was initially The Farmers' Cooperative of North Carolina. We have since evolved to incorporate and serve all sectors of cooperatives into our membership. These sectors include, but are not limited to, agriculture, electric, credit unions, insurance mutuals, telecommunications, food/grocery, associations, and worker-owner. We have power in numbers! Together, we know we can make a great impact on the cooperative movement.
CCC is here to gain visibility for our members, improve the economy, and empower members & their communities.
Educate
CCC offers customized cooperative training to co-op members and owners, employees, directors and community.
Connect
CCC hosts various events offering cross-sector networking opportunities, allowing cooperatives of all sizes and in all regions to connect and practice Principle 6 (P6) at its best.
Not sure what P6 is? Click here to learn more! Connecting cooperatives with one another also offers room for growth and education, therefore creating a great impact! There is power in numbers!
Promote
CCC supports and promotes members' events and helps ideas become reality.
We offer on-site assistance and marketing support to gain visibility for your organization.