Membership News - August, 2010

Are you new to Hampden Park Co-op? Would you like to know more about our co-op? Here’s some information to get you started.

• Cooperative economics is a worldwide phenomenon. Find out more at the web site of the International Co-operative Alliance.
• Hampden Park Co-op is one of a dozen or so co-ops in the Twin Cities area. We remain an independent co-op, and are the only metro-area co-op that has volunteer members.
• We have a Web site where you can find out more about us and read recent and past newsletters: .
• About half of our shoppers are members of the co-op. Everyone is welcome to shop here.
• About 80% of our active members do not volunteer. Some have volunteered in the past; others have never volunteered. All members are an important part of our co-op, whether or not they volunteer.
• Non-volunteering members receive a quarterly 10% discount coupon. You will receive one with your Annual Meeting, patronage, and Mayfest mailings, and as a postcard in July. The coupons are good for one shopping trip.
• About 20% of our active members are volunteers. Our volunteers stock shelves, chop vegetables, serve on the board of directors, cashier, clean, write for the newsletter, provide music, do grounds maintenance, and more. If you would like to be a volunteer, sign up for an orientation in the entryway of the co-op. There are two or three orientation sessions each month, depending on how many new volunteers we need.
• Last summer, Hampden Park Co-op purchased the building in which we have rented space for many years. We are now beginning a number of renovation projects. You can help with these projects by making a donation when you shop ("Roundup at the Register").

If you have questions about membership, e-mail me at naomi@hampdenparkcoop.com.