Join an Action Circle
& Shape the Future of Our Co-op
Your time and skills can create a lasting impact. By joining an Action Circle, you’ll help drive the Grand Rapids Food Co-op’s mission forward while developing new skills, building connections, and shaping a community-owned grocery store. Commit just 2-6 hours a month and be part of something bigger.
What is an Action Circle?
A Team-Based Approach to Making a Difference
Action Circles are dedicated groups that focus on key areas of the co-op’s growth and success. Each circle plays a vital role in shaping our future—from marketing and outreach to financial planning and operations.
Collaborate with like-minded people
Use your skills to create real change
Help build a sustainable, community-owned grocery store
What is an Action Circle?
A Team-Based Approach to Making a Difference
Action Circles are dedicated groups that focus on key areas of the co-op’s growth and success. Each circle plays a vital role in shaping our future—from marketing and outreach to financial planning and operations.
Collaborate with like-minded people
Use your skills to create real change
Help build a sustainable, community-owned grocery store
Choose Your Action Circle
Getting Involved Is Simple!
Finance & Community Investment Circle
Ensure financial sustainability and strategic funding for the co-op.
✔ Oversee financial operations and strategy – Work with the treasurer to manage co-op funds and ensure financial health.
✔ Legal & compliance management – Ensure all necessary legal documents and financial filings are accurate and up to date.
✔ Bookkeeping & reporting – Maintain financial records, track cash flow, and prepare reports.
✔ Member equity management – Monitor and track member shares and investments.
✔ Explore financing options – Research and secure funding sources, including grants and donor relationships.
✔ Grant writing & research – Find and apply for funding opportunities to support the co-op’s growth.
✔ Develop community investment strategies – Manage the pipeline of projects and oversee fund allocation.
✔ Stakeholder engagement – Build relationships with local businesses and investment partners.
Outreach Action Circle
Spread the word and grow our cooperative community.
✔ Plan & host co-op outreach events – Organize tabling at farmers' markets, community fairs, and co-op events.
✔ Facilitate house parties & info sessions – Educate potential owners and recruit new members.
✔ Distribute outreach materials – Spread the word through flyers, posters, and digital campaigns.
✔ Strengthen partnerships – Connect with local organizations and co-ops to build a support network.
✔ Promote inclusivity – Ensure our co-op reaches diverse communities and remains welcoming to all.
✔ Advocate for food security & sustainability – Represent the co-op in local initiatives supporting equitable food access.
Community Building Action Circle
Foster a connected, engaged, and thriving co-op community.
✔ Welcome & onboard new owners – Provide resources and answer questions for new co-op members.
✔ Recruit volunteers & match skills with needs – Identify where members’ talents can be best utilized.
✔ Organize owner meetups & social events – Build a sense of community through regular gatherings.
✔ Create educational workshops – Teach members about cooperative principles and community ownership.
✔ Develop FAQs & knowledge resources – Maintain an up-to-date information hub for owners.
✔ Conduct surveys & gather feedback – Ensure member voices are heard in shaping the co-op’s future.
✔ Manage a suggestion system – Provide a clear way for owners to share ideas and concerns.
Marketing Action Circle
Help shape the co-op’s brand and outreach strategy.
✔ Develop the co-op’s marketing strategy – Align branding with cooperative values.
✔ Design promotional materials – Create flyers, posters, and brochures.
✔ Manage social media & digital content – Keep our community engaged on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms.
✔ Maintain & update the website – Ensure the co-op’s online presence is informative and user-friendly.
✔ Run advertising campaigns – Use paid ads to attract new members and increase awareness.
✔ Conduct market research – Understand community needs and consumer behavior.
✔ Write press releases & manage public relations – Ensure positive media coverage of the co-op.
✔ Manage internal communications – Keep owners informed through newsletters and updates.
Strategy & Operations Action Circle
Foster a connected, engaged, and thriving co-op community.
✔ Identify and Implement Process Improvements – Determine what is working and what is not working and make changes.
✔ Establish and Track Key Performance Indicators (KPI) – Evaluate and track the success of the organization.
✔ Identify & Manage Risks – Identify potential risks and create mitigation plans.
✔ Conduct Competitive Analysis – Identify and track market trends.
✔ Establish Core Operations – Design and document efficient workflows and communications.
✔ Develop Leadership Initiatives – Ensure ongoing leadership development and maintenance
✔ Maintain Company Culture – Maintain a collaborative and innovative company culture consistent with vision, mission, and objectives
✔ Keep Stakeholders Informed – Establish and maintain communication about progress and decisions
💡 Our community-owned grocery store is built by the people, for the people. Your voice, your skills, and your passion will help shape a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving co-op.
By joining an Action Circle, you're not just signing up—you’re stepping into a leadership role that drives real impact. Whether you're strategizing financial growth, expanding outreach, strengthening community ties, or shaping the co-op's future, your contribution matters.
Please fill out this form to express your interest in joining a Grand Rapids Food Co-Op Action circle.
Members should expect a commitment of 2-6 hours of work per month for their respective circles. This includes one monthly meeting. Please note that monthly meetings will likely be virtual to best accommodate schedules.
Which circle(s) are you interested in joining? Please only select up to 2 that interest you.
What is you availability to meet?
Looking for a More Flexible Way to Get Involved?
Not ready to commit to an Action Circle but still want to support the co-op? Our volunteer opportunities are designed for busy individuals like you!
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