Amy Powers

1.Why would you like to serve on the Board of Directors of the Onion River Cooperative?

I have been a member of City Market/Onion River Cooperative for 18 years, and a member worker for six of those years. Last year I ran for the Co-op board and was not elected--so I am tossing my hat into the ring again this year! I value our Co-op for many reasons--access to whole, local, organic foods, a commitment to community and sustainability, and the example City Market sets for socially responsible business practice and alternative economies. Beyond my love of our Co-op, I bring the last 14 years of experience starting and running a consulting firm, and am a member of my own organization's board of directors. Having worked with nonprofit organizations throughout my career, I would like to share my skills in organizational development, group facilitation, program evaluation and analytical thinking, and business management. As a resident of a small town outside Burlington, I would also enjoy bringing the perspective of non-Burlington residents to the work of the Board. Especially as City Market expands into the south end of Burlington, there are exciting opportunities to engage more folks from outlying towns in all that the Co-op offers.

2.The work of the Board is not operational – that is, it does not deal with the daily operations of the store. Instead, the Board deals with the overall policies that identify and guide the mission of the Cooperative.

How will you stay focused on the larger vision, without being distracted by the day-to-day operations of the store?

As a leader in my own organization's development, I am accustomed to maintaining a focus on the big picture-policy development, strategic planning, structural decisions, adherence to the mission, and attending first to the principle behind each decision. I would commit to listening well to all stakeholders involved in Board discussions; doing my best to represent the voices of Co-op members; reading, learning, and preparing well for decision-making.

3.What strengths and skills would you bring to the work of the Cooperative’s Board?

I bring the skills of an entrepreneur and organizational consultant. I have worked for the past 20 years with organizations who strive to make the world a better place--as an educator, direct service worker, administrator, and consultant. In those capacities, I have developed skills that I believe are key to Board membership: listening to all variety of stakeholders, asking questions, perspective taking, and thinking evaluatively. I bring a commitment to helping create a more just world, and see food security, environmental sustainability, healthy bodies, community justice, and alternative economic models as pivotal in walking that path.

On a personal note (with respect to food and Co-ops), I am a parent to three growing boys who seem to eat half the inventory of the Co-op monthly, a supporter of local CSA farms and farmer's markets, a volunteer for Farm to School, a collaborator in starting a local forest school and cooperatively run alternative school, and an avid vegetable gardener. I'm convinced that food is an essential leverage point for making positive changes at personal and systemic levels. Co-ops like City Market are leading the way; I would enjoy the opportunity to lend my skills to that effort.

Thanks.