working groups
We find ourselves at a crucial juncture at the Kingston Food Co-op, where we're taking a close look at our operations and planning for the future. To enhance member involvement in this process, we're establishing member-directed work groups that will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of our co-op.
We value your time, which is why we're asking for a commitment of just 4 hours per month. We also have limited stipends available for those who do not have the capacity to volunteer their time. Meeting times will be determined by work group members.
Timeline
Onboarding will begin the last two weeks of May (between May 20th-31st)
Working groups will commence on Monday, June 3rd
Strategic planning will take place the week of June 3rd
Working groups will meet for approximately 1 hour per week from June 3rd through September 15th
Location and Design Solutions Group
This group will focus on addressing the challenges encountered with the previous site by identifying viable new locations and exploring design strategies that comply with regulatory requirements, optimize delivery and logistical operations, and meet community needs.
Expected Outcomes:
A shortlist of potential locations evaluated for feasibility, compliance, and community impact.
Design principles and criteria that align with city codes, operational efficiency, and co-op values; ensuring a primary focus on the delivery of groceries.
A preliminary design concept for the new site, incorporating community input and sustainability practices.
Individual Roles:
Real Estate Analyst (Up to 4 Members): Focus on identifying and evaluating potential sites, considering factors like cost, location benefits, zoning, and city regulations.
Architectural Advisor (Up to 4 Members): Provide insights into design compliance with city codes, efficiency, and aesthetic that reflects the community's values.
Community Liaison (Up to 2 Members): Engage with community members and local businesses to gather input on location preferences and design aspects.
Financial Sustainability Group
This group is dedicated to developing a robust financial framework that ensures the co-op's long-term viability. This includes reassessing budgeting practices, exploring funding opportunities, and creating a sustainable economic model that supports the co-op's goals without compromising its mission or contributing to local gentrification.
Expected Outcomes:
A revised budget that addresses previous overruns and incorporates realistic projections for future expenses and revenue.
A funding strategy that identifies new grant opportunities, community funding initiatives, and potential investment models.
A financial sustainability plan that includes cost-saving measures, revenue generation ideas, and a clear path to financial health and growth.
Individual Roles:
Budget Analyst (Up to 4 Members): Specialize in creating and revising budgets, identifying cost-saving measures, and ensuring financial projections are realistic and sustainable.
Funding Strategist (Up to 4 Members): Explore grant opportunities, community funding initiatives, and innovative investment models that align with the co-op's mission.
Business Model Innovator (Up to 2 Members): Develop sustainable economic models, considering both traditional and innovative approaches to achieving financial stability.
Community Engagement and Planning Group
Aimed at deepening the co-op's relationship with the Kingston community by enhancing engagement strategies and exploring the feasibility of alternative business models as an interim or complementary initiative to the grocery store. This group will focus on ways to involve the community in the co-op's development and operations actively.
Expected Outcomes:
A comprehensive community engagement plan that includes outreach events, partnership opportunities with local organizations, and feedback mechanisms to ensure the community's voice is heard in the co-op's development.
A feasibility study and operational plan for a buying club, including potential structures, membership models, vendor partnerships, and logistical considerations.
Strategies for integrating the buying club and future grocery store operations to serve the community effectively and sustainably.
Individual Roles:
Community Outreach Coordinator (Up to 4 Members): Plan and execute engagement activities, building relationships with local organizations and the broader community.
Buying Club Planner (Up to 4 Members): Research and propose models for co-op food access activities, focusing on membership structures, vendor partnerships, and logistical frameworks.
Feedback and Evaluation Specialist (Up to 2 Members): Design mechanisms for collecting and integrating community feedback into the co-op's planning processes, ensuring community needs and desires are reflected in the buying club and grocery store initiatives.