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JOIN OUR BOARD!

What does it mean to be a Director?

The Board oversees policy, directs the vision, and represents our Co-op in the cooperative world. The building and the store itself are managed completely by staff – they’re the experts! The Board has established policies and a calendar to ensure that obligations to the Co-op members and the staff are fulfilled. Individual Directors represent the collective membership and guide the cooperative to benefit our community. We also learn a lot from each other, enjoy delicious foods, tell stories, and have fun.

Board Member Expectations

  • Commit to serve a term of three years. 

  • Prepare for and attend board meetings (11 to 12 per year). Regular meetings are currently held on the fourth Tuesday of each month, 6-8 PM.

  • Participate on committees or working groups as needed.

  • Attend conferences, retreats, or professional development opportunities as needed.

  • Represent the Board at Co-op or community events four to six times per year.

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Board Member Qualifications

  • You must be (or become) a current member of the Upper Valley Food Co-op.

  • You must be able to meet time and duty expectations (described above).

  • You must have regular access to a computer and email.

No previous board experience required. We will show you the ropes once you are elected.

Board Member Benefits

  • Receive a 20% discount on all store purchases.

  • Enjoy a complimentary meal from the Co-op at monthly Board meetings.

  • Receive training in cooperative business, policy governance; attend conferences.

UVFC Board Training.jpg

How Do I Join?

Directors are elected by member ballot each fall and serve a three-year term.

  1. Let the nominating committee know that you’re interested in joining the Board and we’ll set you on the right path. You can leave a note with your contact info with a staff member at the Co-op, or email: board@uppervalleyfood.coop. 

  2. Plan to attend a Board meeting, get to know the Directors, and learn more about how the Co-op operates. Feel free to contact us for pertinent articles or explore www.cdsconsulting.coop/resources.

  3. Return your completed Board application (which can be found in the Board candidate packet before the deadline, usually early July) to be considered as a candidate in the coming election. If approved as a candidate, you can run as a nominee on the ballot in the annual election, held in the fall. Member votes are tallied at our Harvest Celebration & Annual Meeting in October. For a copy of the Board of Directors Nominee Packet, email us at board@uppervalleyfood.coop.

 

Our Board of Directors at an annual policy training session.

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