The RCCM board is excited to embark on a new year filled with possibilities. We are delighted to welcome Lisa Nelson as our new board President, bringing invaluable knowledge of the local food ecosystem and a deep commitment to community development. New board members Kathryn Gilbery, Rich Ross, and Marian Kuper are quickly integrating and offering refreshing ideas and enthusiasm.
Mark your calendars for February 4th! Kathryn Gilbery, one of our newest board members, will be a featured speaker at the annual Farm to Fork Dinner, hosted by the UNI-CEEE Local Food Program. This event is a great opportunity to connect with neighbors, farmers, and advocates to share a meal, stories, and a shared vision for a strong regional food system. We encourage you to attend. Event information and registration can be found here.
The search for a market storefront location is ongoing. We appreciate the leads provided by our member-owners, and our site team is diligently following up and discussing potential sites with local developers.
As a new board member, I am incredibly impressed by the dedication and resilience of our co-op members. Even without a physical storefront, the co-op significantly supported the health of the Cedar Valley’s local food system throughout 2025. Here’s a quick overview:
- Engaged with the public at 7 Community Events.
- Contributed to Cedar Falls Earth Day by cleaning Gateway Park.
- Volunteered at the NE Iowa Food Bank.
- Successfully managed a CSA
- Hosted a successful Fall Food Festival with over 15 local vendors and more than 200 attendees.
It’s important to remember that this work is done entirely by unpaid volunteers. Our members generously donate their time and energy out of a genuine love for their community and the people within it.
I’m proud to be a part of this community and I hope you’ll come out to see me at one of our Brews & FAQs events. I and other board members will be available to chat about the co-op and answer questions or discuss any ideas you have. I might even buy you a drink!
Rich Ross
Board Member, Community Partner Coordinator