Definition of a Consumer Operated Service Program (COSP)

Consumer Operated:

• Consumers constitute the majority (at least 51 percent) on the board or group which decides all policies and procedures.
• With limited exceptions, staff consists of consumers who are hired by and operate the consumer operated service program.
• Consumers have control of the operating budget.
• Role opportunities for participants may include board and leadership positions, volunteer jobs and paid staff positions.

Participant Responsive:

• A consumer operated service program responds flexibly to the needs of participants
• Consumers have ways to indicate dissatisfaction with their program and to have grievances addressed.

Linkage to other supports:

• A consumer operated service program offers linkage to other supports, with referrals to other community services, and networking with other consumer groups.