As we welcome the start of a new year, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and connections within our community. Each year brings new opportunities to grow together, and 2025 is no exception. Let’s embrace this fresh start with hope and collaboration, building a brighter future for everyone in the St. Croix Valley.
At River Market, we feel every year is exciting to be a co-op but this year will be extra special. As we enter 2025, we celebrate a momentous declaration by the United Nations: 2025 has been officially named the Year of the Co-op. This global recognition highlights the transformative role cooperatives play in fostering economic, social, and environmental sustainability. Here at River Market Community Co-op in Stillwater, MN, we are honored to embrace this theme and lead the charge in celebrating and expanding the cooperative movement in the St. Croix Valley.
The Global Significance of Co-ops
What is a cooperative? Most people define it as an association of people (organization) that is owned and controlled by the people to meet their common economic, social, and or cultural needs through a jointly owned and democratically controlled business. Cooperatives are a proven model for equitable development, prioritizing people over profits. With over 1 billion cooperative members worldwide, this model empowers communities, supports local economies, and provides a framework for shared decision-making. By naming 2025 the Year of the Co-op, the United Nations underscores the essential contributions of co-ops in addressing global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change.
River Market Co-op: Transforming the St. Croix Valley and Beyond
Over the years, River Market Community Co-op has been a driving force for positive change in the St. Croix Valley. By prioritizing local and organic products, we’ve supported sustainable farming practices and ensured that residents have access to fresh, healthy food. Our partnerships with local farmers and producers have strengthened the local economy, keeping resources circulating within our community.
Beyond economic impact, the co-op has fostered a sense of connection and shared purpose. From hosting community events to providing educational opportunities, River Market has become a gathering place where ideas flourish, and relationships grow. Our goals to improve our sustainability and operate with the environment in mind are the principles that make River Market special.
River Market Co-op: Leading Locally, Inspiring Globally
At River Market Co-op, we have long championed the cooperative values of democracy, sustainability, and mutual support. As we step into 2025, this international recognition serves as both an inspiration and a call to action. Here are some of the ways we’re aligning with the Year of the Co-op:
- Deepening Community Partnerships: Building on our strong relationships with local farmers, artisans, and businesses, we aim to expand opportunities for collaboration that uplift our entire region with initiatives like our monthly round up and the Growers, Grazers, Makers and Bakers Grant Program.
- Educational Outreach: We’ll host workshops/classes and events throughout the year to share the cooperative model’s benefits and inspire others to join the movement. Topics will range from cooperative governance to sustainable living practices to gardening.
- Global Solidarity: Through connections with other cooperatives around the world, we’ll foster a shared sense of purpose and highlight success stories that demonstrate the power of working together.
How You Can Celebrate the Year of the Co-op
There are countless ways to get involved in this historic year. Here are some ideas to celebrate and support cooperatives:
- Become an owner: If you haven’t already, consider joining River Market Co-op as an owner. Your participation strengthens the cooperative and gives you a voice in its future.
- Shop Local, Shop Co-op: Choose cooperatively owned businesses whenever possible. Every purchase supports a model that prioritizes community and sustainability.
- Attend Events: From classes to local gatherings such as beer/coffee with the board at River Market Co-op, 2025 is packed with opportunities to learn and connect.
- Share the Message: Spread the word about the Year of the Co-op and encourage friends and family to explore the benefits of cooperative living.
A Vision for the Future
The declaration of 2025 as the Year of the Co-op is more than a celebration; it’s a call to action. Together, we can use this momentum to advance cooperative values and ensure a brighter, more equitable future for all.
From everyone at River Market Co-op, we thank you for your continued support and partnership. Let’s make 2025 a banner year for the cooperative movement!
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