Five Reasons to Join Your Local Co-op
#5 – Join a community of people who care about healthy, organic food
You are what you eat, so you want to eat good food. Your local food co-op has the good food you want. Co-ops offer a wide selection of organic food and they tend to source products from local vendors whenever possible. The USDA Organic label ensures that a food, supplement, or personal care product was produced according to the USDA's strict organic standards. In addition to being non-GMO, items that have earned the organic label are typically produced by or sourced from farms maintaining and improving soil quality and using sustainable agricultural practices without the use of synthetic fertilizers, insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides.
#4 – Have a voice – request products, elect the Board of Directors, run for the Board of Directors
When you become an owner of the Co-op your input matters. Use your voice to request products you want the Co-op to offer. Owners are also invited to be actively involved in the cooperative structure. Not only do owners elect the Co-op's Board of Directors, they are also eligible to run for a seat on the Board. Be an active participant in the Co-op and your voice will be heard.
#3 – Ownership in the Co-op is voluntary
Because ownership is voluntary, you may discontinue your membership at any time by giving notice to the Co-op. If you choose to discontinue your Medford Food Co-op membership for any reason, you may redeem your share(s). Share redemption forms are available at checkout. For owners taking advantage of our payment plan option, redemption is only available once shares are paid in full.
#2 – Owner Benefits
Owners receive monthly coupons and the coupon savings alone will pay for the cost of the share over time. Also, owners may earn patronage dividends in profitable years as determined by the Board of Directors. Having just completed our fourth year, Medford Food Co-op has not yet issued patronage refunds, as we are still a new business and are paying for our start up costs. With increased ownership and continued sales growth we should be able to offer patronage dividends in the near future.
#1 – Co-ops support the local economy and community
By shopping at your local co-op and becoming a member, you are directly contributing to the economic growth, sustainability, and prosperity of your local community. Did you know that for every $100 you spend at a co-op, $160 is generated in the local economy? In addition to keeping your dollars in the local economy, the Co-op also donates to community organizations and events. When the community benefits, you benefit. Go local and join your Co-op today!