Wow! This community really wants a food co-op. Here are just some of the ways we worked together for another record-breaking June, getting us closer to opening the doors…
There was a virtual revolving door at 250 State Street at a co-op party hosted by member-owners Jim and LeAnne Sprau. The buzz over the future food co-op around downtown Cedar Falls was electric. “Sign me up!” became the mantra that evening, which ended with 9 new member-owners! Huge thanks to Jim and LeAnne as well as other house-party hosts in June: Dianna LaPole Geiger, Glenn Keith and Michelle Jungers, and Ethan Wiechmann. More member-hosted gatherings, which are a great way to introduce new people to the Co-op, are in the works – let me know if you have an event planned or want help planning one.
Wow!
We started the month of June with 765 member-owners and an ambitious goal to reach 850 by the month’s end. In addition to the aforementioned gatherings, member-owners shared Facebook posts, reached out to friends and neighbors, marched alongside Rooty in the Sturgis parade, and proudly wore Co-op t-shirts and carried Co-op tote bags. They also continue to display Co-op yard signs. Member-owners definitely made it happen – we ended our month with 846 member-owners, and we hit a record number of new members for one month with 81!
Wow!
June brought new volunteers, events, and community partnerships. We were thrilled to partner with Randolph Bryan of Cottonwood Canyon for a plus-one event with live music and delicious food where 6 new member-owners joined for a chance to win a kayak. Did you see it at Cottonwood Canyon or around town? Thanks to Scott at The Runner’s Flat and Nick at Second State for displaying the kayak, and member-owner Tara Sundt for volunteering to transport it between venues. Speaking of Second State, everyone is invited there to celebrate the record month of June at the next Co-op Connections on Thursday, July 12 from 5 – 6:45 p.m. Raise a pint in celebration and be on hand for the drawing to find out who will be the lucky kayak owner.
Wow!
Several committee members headed to Decorah mid-June to see Oneota Community Food Co-op. We are grateful for the in-depth tour provided by outreach manager, Phil showing us what we can look forward to when the Cedar Falls Food Co-op opens. This 8,000 square foot store is in the heart of downtown Decorah with a community kitchen space right next door. Thanks to Kelsey Hammers-Park for creating an informative video, which provides a taste of what’s to come in Cedar Falls. Check out the video HERE!
Wow!
With each new member-owner, we gain even more momentum. There’s no reason why July 2018 can be just as exciting. Member-owners are making it happen. Thank you all for your support in bringing this community-owned business to the Cedar Valley.
So I say once more, Wow!
Melanie Drake
Outreach Coordinator