Steering Committee at the Wheel

What happens when 25 of greater Manchester's talented and dedicated citizens meet to discuss a food co-op?

Electricity. Or at the very least a very bright spark.

As the group formally introduced themselves, the agenda put together by co-chairs Linda Purdy (above left) and Veronica Kamerman (above right, with advisor Chris Clamp, center) covered a lot of ground: from membership to market studies to grants and fundraisers. Eight sub-committees were created to focus on legal, website, development, recruitment, marketing, fundraising, a mission statement and membership forms.

Another public meeting is being planned to spread the word and help educate people in the greater Manchester community about the benefits of food co-ops. Concerns were voiced about including both the West Side community and neighboring towns by rotating the venue of the meetings to potential spaces such as the Auditorium at the Manchester Public Library or the William B. Cashin Senior Activity Center.

In the final minutes of the meeting, it was also proposed to submit an proposal to the New Hampshire Start-up Challenge. With the clock ticking, the group decided to take on the aggressive challenge of writing a 1,000 word essay by Jan. 31.

The Steering Committee meets again in March to continue the journey. Check back for updates as the project moves forwards. Want to volunteer? Email manchesterfoodcoop@gmail.com.