WedgeShare: We Make A Difference

By Fred Grieco

Many of the Wedge Co-op's member/owners shop here because we care deeply about certain shared values: concern for the environment, health and wellness, local control of profits, and the development of sustainable agriculture (Member survey, 1998). Out of the desire to express these values in the community, the Board of Directors created WedgeShare, our philanthropic program. This decision reflects our collective passion and commitment to Cooperative Principle# 7: Concern for Community.

Each year at this time, Wedge members get to select the local organizations that will benefit from our success. This year, up to $100,000 will be allocated amongst the winning organizations who are all working for a better world through outreach related to:

• Environmental Quality and Protection
• Food and Agriculture
• Cooperative - related Activities
• Health and Wellness

Over the past months, we received and evaluated many applications. The organizations on the ballot most closely match the program's criteria. Now it's your turn to decide which organizations should receive WedgeShare grants. Please read the program descriptions carefully. The WedgeShare voting is done on the same ballot as the board election. Thank you for your time and consideration!