Directors at CCMA Get Refreshed Ideas, Renewed Commitment

After attending my third CCMA annual conference, it still felt like a religious revival meeting-after which we went home to evangelize about the co-op difference. Many directors shared the sentiment. "We came out of this with refreshed ideas, renewed commitment," observed Theo Hartman, director, French Broad Food Co-op, Asheville, North Carolina.

Scene from Good Foods Co-op in Lexington: fresh sushi under construction.

Conference sessions emphasized the changing environment for co-ops, the need for cooperation among cooperators, and educating the public about the value of co-ops in building community and sustainable economies. CCMA met a range of needs for board members. After this, his first CCMA, Chet Nelson, director, Ocean Beach Peoples Organic Co-op, San Diego, California, said, "It was a great experience-a lot of helpful information now and for the future."

Scene from Good Foods Co-op in Lexington: Quilt on display in Café.

Another first-time attendee, Buck Rhyme, director, Willy Street Co-op, Madison, Wisconsin said he "particularly appreciated the opportunity to hear how other boards are dealing with similar challenges and opportunities. It was the learning and camaraderie that I was looking for." Merle Borchers, director, Wedge Community Co-op, Minneapolis, Minnesota has attended over 10 CCMA annual meetings. He observed that natural foods co-ops demonstrate a variety of images and values. "The most valuable part is seeing and learning how staff and directors of other co-ops present their store and membership."

If you are a director, now is the time to start planning to attend the 48th annual CCMA conference on June 10-12, 2004. Mark your calendar and include CCMA in your budget. The Twin Cities Natural Food Co-ops look forwarding to welcoming you to Minneapolis-St. Paul!