About GRACC
Founded: October 12, 2012
Our Mission
The Grand Rapids Alliance of Cooperative Communities is an intentional cooperative promoting community and sustainability while providing inclusive and affordable housing.
Our Vision
We envision a thriving, interconnected system of cooperatively owned housing in Grand Rapids Michigan that prioritizes low-income households, fosters community, and empowers individuals. We are committed to improving and expanding opportunities for cooperative housing in the Greater Grand Rapids area.
Our Core Values
CONNECT on a shared vision in intentional cooperative community.
GROW as individuals and leaders in character and capacity.
CREATE an enhanced quality of life for our members and our community
Our Foundational Focus
CAUSE: Affordable Housing
NICHE: Co-operative Community
Cooperative Housing is Affordable Housing
Cooperative housing is a unique approach that makes housing more affordable in the following ways:
Shared Stewardship: As a member of GRACC, residents contribute their time and effort in most of the work involved in maintaining and operating the property. Except when licensed professionals are required, members help with repairs, maintenance and grounds keeping, which significantly reduces costs, helping to keep housing affordable.
Shared Resources: As a member of GRACC, residents have their own bedroom, while sharing common area spaces (kitchen, dining room, community room, bathroom, laundry, gardens). This allows for more rooms available in the same amount of space comparable to a single-family house. This also saves members on utility costs. In addition, through bulk purchasing power members reap saving on grocery, cleaning, and household costs. And part of the rent that members pays goes toward the costs of tools and materials needed for repairs and maintenance. By pooling resources, co-op members can enjoy amenities without bearing the full cost individually.
Shared Decision-Making: Residents in a co-op make collective decisions about the management of the organization and the upkeep of the property. This democratic process can lead to more cost-effective decisions and better financial planning, as members can prioritize spending and maintenance needs based on shared interests. In addition, having a say in what we do fosters a sense of mindful community leading to greater housing stability.
Non-Profit Organization: GRACC operates as a non-profit, which means we are focused on providing affordable housing rather than generating profit. This structure helps keep costs down and allows savings to be passed on to members as in the form of more affordable housing.
Long-Term Stability: GRACC member rental rates are more stable compared to rental markets, residents can avoid the costs associated with frequent moves or rent increases, providing long-term affordability and stability.
Democratic Participation
GRACC is structured as a cooperative – residents control the governance of the organization. Ten residents sit on our Board of Directors. The Board oversees budgeting, staff, policymaking, and expansion. Through our democratic structure, we empower residents to make key decisions about their housing. With this responsibility comes commitment and shared ownership.
Impact
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Affordability: Our housing costs below market rates. Serving the needs of low-income residents is key to our work. By making cooperative ownership available to a wide range of people, we are fostering a more stable community in areas dominated by homes owned by absentee landlords.
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Building leadership: Residents gain concrete skills during their time at our co-ops. In addition to teaching financial, maintenance, communication, and team building skills, we develop strong leaders in the community. These leaders go on to start new programs, volunteer their talent, and remain engaged in Grand Rapids.
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Sustainability: Environmental and economic sustainability are critical in both serving our community and prospering as an organization. We strive for energy efficiency, find creative ways to reduce consumption and waste, and educate our members and neighbors about the importance of sustainable practices.
The current GRACC executive board composition is diverse, with 2 from diverse ethnic backgrounds, 1 identifying as LGBTQ, and 3 are women.
60% plus of our residents are Neuro-Diverse. More than 50% of residents LGBTQ+
Resident composition is multi-generational, ranging in ages from 18 -
70+
More than 77% of members are below the 80% AMI (Area Median Income)
GRACC has provided affordable housing to more than 190 individuals since 2012
GRACC has managed to maintain an average of more than 92% occupancy since its inception
Shared meals are held twice a week at the James Russell House. Regular community building & engagement events are held within and between the houses.
