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Our Newsletter


Become an Owner

 Vancouver Food Cooperative was established in 2006 forming a non-profit, member-owned business with the goal of providing healthy, local, food for owners and the public.  VFC has grown each year and in the summer of 2010 opened a store with online ordering that features local farmers and food artisans.

 A growing ownership allows the co-op to continue toward its goal of a permanent, fully stocked store front. Owner shares provide the capital necessary to make the dream come true. An individual (at least 18 years old) may become a member-owner by completing/signing the ownership agreement and submitting it with payment.

 

Benefits of Membership

 

By becoming an owner, you are part of the voting membership, may participate in co-op decisions and are a critical component in providing a local source for fresh, healthy foods while supporting area farmers and the local economy.

MEMBERS RECEIVE

  • Preferred pricing on store purchases.
  • Quarterly new member orientation.
  • A "New Member Packet" including membership card and VFC window cling.
  • Free member-only events.
  • Reciprocity at other food cooperatives in Washington State.
  • A vote in Board elections and may run for office (one vote per member)
  • Discounts on workshops and classes
  • Volunteer opportunities with VFC.

ALSO, MEMBERS AND OTHER COMMUNITY SUPPORTERS CAN:

  • Attend monthly Board meetings to learn more about VFC
  • Sign-up to receive our monthly newsletter
  • Participate in VFC special events open to the public.
  • Non-members may use the on-line ordering process (or come to the store to make a purchase), but do not receive the preferred pricing member-owners receive.

 

Become an Owner, Buy a Share

 

Ownership is as easy as a few simple steps. Buy a share for yourself or make a gift of a share for a neighbor, friend, or family member. Your additional donation can support the VFC Scholarship program.

  1.  Owners must be at least 18 years old
  2. An ownership agreement signed by the individual owner must be submitted with payment (mail it to: VFC, PO Box 546, Vancouver, WA 98666 - or if you place an order by the next deadline and wish to receive the owner discount, bring the agreement to the store when you pick up your first order.)
  3. Submit payment of $180 (full payment) or $60 (initial payment) by check made to: Vancouver Food Cooperative or use PayPal (allows you to use a major credit card if you don't want a PayPal account - remember, you must also submit the signed ownership agreement).

You may use this form to pay (and mail in your signed ownership agreement):

Payment Options

 

Multiple Shares

Owners may purchase up to 20 shares but receive only one vote. The first share may partake in the "initial payment" option of $60/year, balance due at the end of three years. If purchasing more than one share, full payment of $180/share is required for all shares after the initial share.

Gift Shares

Share the benefits of ownership with friends and family by purchasing a Gift Share. Just follow the steps to Become an Owner (above) and check the "Gift Share" box on the Share Agreement. Provide the recipient's information as well as your own (The recipient must sign the agreement before the ownership can be fully processed). Full payment is required for gift shares. Contact membership@vancouverfood.coop with questions. 

Owner Scholarships

VFC believes that all people should have access to healthy, local food; the Scholarship Program helps fill the gap for area residents who are unable to purchase a full share at the time of application. Although VFC is dependent on the kindness of members and public donations to support the Scholarship Program every effort is made to provide assistance to anyone who is interested in becoming a member.

VFC Scholarship Program Guidelines and Criteria Information

Scholarship Application

Ownership Agreement (Application)