On Nov. 16, 14 people gathered at the Resource Centre for the North Thompson in Clearwater to discuss the formation of a small business cooperative.
The chairs were set in a circle, not only as a visual prompt to the purpose of a cooperative but also to encourage the important fact that each individual has equal credence in the council and to ensure that everyone gets to bring his or her ideas and needs forward in a safe inclusive environment. The intention was set with a video presentation on 'the circle way' - how to run a meeting as a round, eliminating hierarchy and power issue.
This gathering of entrepreneurs reflects a growing grassroots movement that is occurring largely unnoticed and rarely supported by our current governing bodies - individuals who desire a relationship to our homes and the valley surrounding us. Economy means care and management of the home not just moneymaking. It includes ecology and caring for how we make our money. It also means living a quality of life that is healthier for all and this in turn creates a happier inclusive community - not disparate and fragmented as I currently see our valley.
Artisans, farmers, ranchers, market gardeners, small food producers, herbalists, crafters, visionaries, artisans, healers - all great people with great ideas that on a small scale get little attention except for a few promises and some crumbs thrown at them ... barely enough to keep them flogging away trying to live the world they wish to see for their children and grandchildren.
For most of us working 'down here' there are too many things to do and not enough time. There is no place to connect and display and sell our product year round, a poorly trained or no labor force to hire for help, and it is difficult for individuals to develop product to meet current market requirements. There are big gaps in our skill base and financial resources to develop and market our product.
Cheryl Thomas and her vast connections and commitment to food security shared information on the North Thompson Food Action Network Society. She suggested it would be a good start to work with this group to access seed money to fund the creation of a cooperative for producers and service providers.
Together we can bring these visions to reality and bring the quality and potential of these gifted and passionate individuals. We can share the work and the resources, hire key individuals for assisting in proposal writing, product development and marketing, improve production and markets, have adequate storage and production facilities. Some have land for use, some have time in different seasons, and some have key information and skills. All it takes is connection. Like the hubs on a wheel we each create and bring strength to the wheel that turns to fulfillment in a valley wide venture - being the change we want to see. Building the community we want to live in. Together we can have a voice for that vision. If you are interested in being part please call Sharon or Tannis 250-674-2538 or email balance@telus.net. Our next meeting will be in January, 2012.
– Sharon Neufeld