Amelia English
Outreach and Communications for the MN Dept. of Natural Resources & Group Fitness Coach at Solcana Fitness, she/her
Like many Minnesotans, I was called to action during the occupation of our city this year. In a horrifying time, seeing the connection and strength in our community during my weekly trips to buy eggs and seitan was a bright light. I’m running for Seward Co-op’s Board of Directors because I want to continue serving my community, specifically supporting the co-op work towards its Ends.
I work two jobs: in communications and outreach for the Department of Natural Resources and as a coach at Solcana Fitness. I spend my time encouraging Minnesotans to care for (and enjoy!) the environment and their own health. Government employment means I’m practiced, patient and thorough with meetings, policy and planning. I’m experienced with many forms of outreach. I am a member of the DNR’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Action Team and value that work highly. I’m a proud MAPE Union member.
Effective boards have varying perspectives and priorities but are able to collaborate efficiently. I am a people-person to my core; I’m great at building trust and connection, fostering a respectful, open environment that is essential to working collaboratively.
Shopping at the co-op is a way to keep my money local and outside of massive supply chain structures. Looking to the future, I’d like to see the co-op continue to prioritize local producers of both food products and household essentials. I’d like to expand the variety of nonfood products on offer, making it easier to avoid shopping at big box stores or online.
Immigrants are essential to our community. My vision for the co-op’s future includes prioritizing both stocking items that feel like home to our neighbors, as well as supporting community members through the challenges of living in the current political environment. We keep us safe, and to do that we need to have support systems and processes in place.
The work of the board should reflect the needs of all stakeholders. I have ideas for action but would approach this role as a humble listener first, ready to lift up the needs and hopes of members and all shoppers.