The cooperative business model plays an integral role worldwide in scaling up food security and nutrition, providing energy solutions to marginalized communities and alleviating poverty through financial empowerment.

That’s the subject of the first of two workshops NCBA CLUSA will helm next week at the 30th InterAction Forum in Washington, D.C.

“The cooperative business model has a proven track record, but it is under-promoted as a viable, sustainable economic and social driver of change,” said Amy Coughenour, NCBA CLUSA COO for International Development.

“Our hope is that this workshop will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the co-op model, how it is being effectively used and how organizations can partner with the cooperative sector to help achieve our shared goal of sustainable development,” Coughenour added.

The annual InterAction Forum brings together leaders from non-profits, governments, philanthropy, corporations and civil society to advance collaboration, effectiveness and innovation in the fight to end poverty and secure a more sustainable and equitable future. The forum features dynamic speakers, engaging workshops and myriad networking opportunities.

NCBA CLUSA’s second workshop will challenge participants to improve their focus, leadership and results by applying values-based management developed by top leadership thinkers.

A hands-on, practical approach will demonstrate how values-based management can help organizations withstand and even thrive in challenging environments.

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“In a business that relies on self-motivation, commitment, integrity and trust, it is critical for NGO leaders to not only internalize how their own values drive them, but also how to translate this into clearer organizational values, daily actions and better results,” Coughenour said.

2014 marks the 30th anniversary of InterAction, an alliance of more than 180 nongovernmental organizations working toward a more peaceful, just and prosperous future. NCBA CLUSA recently joined 32 other international development organizations to pledge a collective $1.5 billion toward global food security.

• “Model for the Future or Vestige of the Past? Engaging the Cooperative Sector as an Effective Partner in Sustainable Development Solutions” will meet in Room 151B from 1:45 to 3:15 p.m. on Thursday, June 12.

• “Values-based Management: Translating Personal and Organizational Values into Results” will meet in Room 151B from 1:45 to 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11.

Workshop speakers include Coughenour, Saul Wolf and Martin Lowery moderated by Paul Hazen, representing NCBA CLUSA, the World Council of Credit Unions, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and the Overseas Cooperative Development Council.

—Click here to register for the 2014 InterAction Forum