Em Peck
Why do you want to serve on the Eastside Food Co-op Board of Directors?
I firmly believe that access to healthy and local food ensures a thriving community. Now more than ever, it is important to come together to support our local cooperatives to ensure a functioning democratic community. I love Northeast more than anything, so I want to be a part of a board that uplifts and cares for their neighborhood.
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 come from a nonprofit background. I have worked in operations, fundraising, and general board of directors service in the past. In the past I have worked for various arts nonprofits, including She Rock She Rock, The Southern Theater, Mayday Parade/HOTB Theatre, and more! I am currently back in school for Political Science with the hope to work closer in my community and become involved in local policy work.
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.
2. Democratic Member Control - this aspect is more important than ever! In the current political environment, it is imperative that the members of the community feel that their voice is being heard and validated. In order to strengthen our community from the ground up, we must ensure that our organization is supporting its members and continuing to be a pillar of support in uncertain times.
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.
My current place of employment is B-Corp certified, and I work closely on the committee to ensure that we stay compliant. I specifically lead the JEDI committee (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion). We always have a 1, 3, & 5 year plan that we are referencing and adapting based on current needs. This requires you to always look into the future.
Eastside Food Co-op is “Here for Good.” What does that mean to you?
"Here for Good." to me means that no matter what, especially through hardships, Eastside will always be here to serve their community. Not only will they continue to support our side of the city, they will always listen and adapt to the needs of the members.