Adrianna Warden
Why do you want to serve on the Eastside Food Co-op Board of Directors?
As a northeast Minneapolis resident, I would like to serve on the board of directors at the east side coop as a passionate community member and bringing experience from both the corporate and nonprofit sectors to support Eastside's mission. I want to help uplift Native American voices and ensure our co-op reflects the vibrant, diverse community it serves to the best of its abilities.
Share any skills, interests, and experience you would bring to the board. Examples may be drawn from any personal, educational, professional, or volunteer experiences.
I currently hold a degree in nutrition and gender studies from the College of Saint Benedict and support the board of directors at the Indian Health Board of Minneapolis by managing operations and assisting with current board policies and updates. From my background I am passionate about improving access to healthy food and fostering strong community connections and am committed to supporting inclusive, community driven efforts like those at Eastside.
Eastside is founded on the 7 Cooperative Principles (https://www.eastsidefood.coop/about-co-ops). Choose one of the principles and describe how you think the board can encourage and foster this in our cooperative.
One of the cooperative principles that speaks most to me and what I believe the board can encourage is principle 7. Concern for Community by backing efforts that improve the overall well being of not only Eastside's owners but its neighborhood community as well hrough social, economic and educational opportunities. As I currently work in Indigenous healthcare, this has taught me how important it is 'or decisions to be made with the community around you in mind and to reflect their values. Focusing on community growth and sustainability, I see how the co-op is already; & can grow further as a trusted part of the local community and a promoter of positive change
One of the board’s main responsibilities is to plan for the cooperative’s future. Please describe any experience with long-term strategic planning and/or collaborative decision making.
In my current role, I assist in the facilitation of long term plans by managing projects like the design and construction of IHB's new medical campus facility, renovations on current property, important operational purchases and safety updates that keep our facility running smoothly and ready for the future. I work closely alongside senior leadership, community members and vendors to assist in both day to day needs and bigger goals. This role has taught me how to think ahead while bringing to the table practical solutions for all. I am hopeful I can share my skills with the board to create a stronq community cooperative for all.
Eastside Food Co-op is “Here for Good.” What does that mean to you?
To me, "Here for Good" is not just a saying, it is a true commitment to be not just a store, but a neighbor in the community that is committed to the long term benefit of those around them. As a Northeast resident and someone who works closely in the community, I truly see how programs like Seedlings can support groups like Dream of Wild Health and Division of Indian Work, which benefit their own missions and serve many people I work with every day. The dedication and meaningful support to do good for the community makes the co-op a one of a kind place to shop.