Member Resources
Welcome to the Member Resources Hub! Here, you’ll discover a variety of tools, information, and support designed to enhance your co-op experience and empower you in your journey with us. Whether you need details on rent payments, maintenance requests, move-out procedures, event calendars, community forums, or answers to frequently asked questions, our resources are crafted to meet your needs.
Explore and see how we can assist you in reaching your goals and connecting with fellow members! Our co-ops offer more than just affordable housing; they embody community, cooperation, and the opportunity to lead full, healthy, social lives.
RENT PAYMENTS
Contact your co-op accountant by calling CSI at 586-753-9002 to get your registration information.
Work Orders & Maintenance
In time, things do wear out or go wrong. Do not let small troubles become big ones. Any problem such as a leaky faucet, a stubborn lock, a sluggish drain in the tub/sink or any other maintenance concerns should be reported to your floor representative, who will fill out a work order for the maintenance committee. Please do not go directly to the custodian or maintenance staff, unless it is an emergency. For more information on CSI’s work order policy please see your floor representative or the co-op office.
*All move-outs will be processed according to local, state and federal guidelines.
Event Calendar
BY REGION
FAQ
Each co-op is assigned a liaison or a coordinator. The liaison is responsible to promote the belief in the cooperative principles and to assist in creating a strong community that adheres to CSI Support policies and federal, state and local laws. This is accomplished by providing continuous education to empower all members to participate in the management of their cooperative while maintaining a positive and respectful attitude. Additionally, the liaison supports the volunteers in the day-to-day management of the co-op, acts in the best interest of the cooperative and represents the corporation in a positive manner and promotes the mutual policy of respect between members.
The co-op service coordinator helps members access necessary services, promotes health and well-being through educational programs, and supports member activities and culture. They assist with various needs such as Medicare/Medicaid education, securing chore providers, locating medical services, arranging home medical equipment, ensuring smooth hospital discharge transitions, finding transportation, connecting veterans to services, applying for food stamps, signing up for phone benefits, advocating for bill payment options, completing Power of Attorney and Advance Directives, reviewing Social Security statements, connecting with grief counseling, and securing re-certification documents. All co-op members are eligible for assistance, and coordinators adhere to a strict code of ethics. For more information, contact Brenda Carney at (586) 753-9002.
The CSI Board is made up of members who live in our co-ops. They are strong volunteers, who lead by example, and believe in our co-op way of life wholeheartedly. The Board sets the standard for the whole cooperative. They make decisions that affect the lives of all our co-op members. The Board works with our staff to oversee CSI’s strategy, finances, and performance. The Board defines and supports the mission, acts on behalf of members, encourages growth, represents CSI, and upholds core values. The Board is comprised of 13 co-op members that represent their regions: 6 from Michigan, 3 from Maryland, 2 from California, and 2 from Massachusetts. All resident members can vote for the Board of Directors in their region.
The council is a group of volunteer resident members who are elected to conduct the day-to-day business affairs and management of the co-op. They act in accordance with the best interests of the members and are responsible for the orderly management of their co-op. The council consists of co-op officers, floor representatives, and one CSI congress delegate.
The CSI Congress is a group of elected volunteers from each co-op that represent the membership. They provide a link between the membership and the CSI Board of Directors in order to maintain effective control of the corporation by the membership. The CSI congress has member-driven task forces that study volunteerism, diversity awareness and security. The CSI Congress also has committees that oversee the election of the CSI board of directors and plans the annual meeting.
We call our residents "members" because they are more than just tenants—they actively participate in the community's decision-making processes. Each member has a voice and a vote, which contributes to the democratic control and cooperative spirit of our communities. This approach emphasizes the sense of belonging and shared ownership, aligning with cooperative principles.
We call our communities "co-ops" because they are cooperatively managed by the people who live there. Unlike traditional rental housing, our members are directly involved in governing their community, ensuring that decisions reflect their needs and values. This participatory model fosters a sense of empowerment and community solidarity.
Our co-ops are participatory rather than equity-based, meaning that members do not buy ownership shares in their homes. Instead, they contribute through involvement and collaboration, focusing on community well-being rather than financial gain. This ensures that the primary goal is affordable, quality housing, managed collectively for the benefit of all members, rather than profit.
Opportunities to Thrive
Volunteering is a great way to stay active, meet new people, learn something new, and have an impact on how your co-op is managed. The co-op runs on volunteer power! We encourage you to think about how your life experiences, passions and curiosities may benefit your fellow members. Please contact your co-op's office to learn about our exciting volunteer opportunities. We look forward to having you as a volunteer!
SOCIAL EVENTS
Social events are vital for enhancing our members’ well-being by fostering connections and reducing isolation. They create opportunities to meet new people, share experiences, and build friendships. These activities also promote physical engagement, creative expression, learning, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging and purpose.
VOLUNTEERING
Volunteering offers valuable benefits for our members by keeping them active and engaged in their communities. It provides a sense of purpose as they apply their skills to assist others and manage their co-op. Volunteering is a fulfilling way to give back and lead a healthier, more rewarding life.
MEETINGS
Participating in co-op meetings is essential for staying informed about your co-op’s management. These meetings create an opportunity for members to discuss important issues, share updates, and express concerns, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Participation offers insights into decision-making and upcoming projects that impact your living environment. By participating in meetings, you contribute to the co-op’s success and strengthen your sense of connection and stake in the community.
JOIN US ON FACEBOOK
Join our Facebook page to stay updated on all things related to CSI and our co-ops! By following us, you’ll gain access to important announcements, community events, and valuable resources that can enhance your co-op experience. It’s a great way to connect with fellow members, share insights, and stay informed about the latest happenings in our community. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to engage with others and be part of the conversation—join us today and help strengthen our cooperative spirit!
Creating a Greener Planet
We encourage you to follow basic tips that will help us be as green as we can be. Being green provides healthier homes for the people who live and work in your community.
Energy Efficiency
- Turn off your lights when not in your apartment.
- Keep your blinds closed during hot, sunny days to keep your apartment cooler. Never open the windows while the air or heat is on.
- Turn your air conditioning off if you are not in your apartment for a day or more.
- Turn down the heat; every degree you dial down saves energy.
- Set your computer’s energy savings. Turn it off and unplug it when not in use.
- Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs are the best replacement for incandescent and halogen lamps. They use a fraction of the energy, last many times longer, produce very little heat, and contain no hazardous materials.
Water Efficiency
- Report leaky faucets and running toilets immediately to the office.
- Remove and rinse the aerators on your faucets periodically to remove any collected sediment.
- Shorten your shower by one minute; turn the water off while you brush your teeth or shave.
- While you wait for the hot water, capture tap water in a watering can to use for houseplants.
Resource Efficiency
- Reduce, reuse and recycle. Dispose of hazardous waste properly.
- Reduce e-waste (electronics) and dispose of properly.
- Use reusable shopping bags instead of paper or plastic.
- Purchase local products.
- Purchase recycled products.
Site Sustainability
- Carpool or use public transportation when you can. Attend some meetings through the web or via teleconference instead of traveling.
Indoor Air Quality
- Don’t allow anyone to smoke in your apartment.
- Report leaks, wet carpet, or walls.
- Report pest issues immediately.
- If water must be remediated with drying equipment in your apartment due to a disaster, do not turn the equipment off and do not open your windows or door. This will interfere with the dry-out process.
- Use green products and methods to keep your apartment clean. Vinegar is an excellent natural cleaning agent for many household chores.