Get to Know Your Board - Abbey

The Merc Co+op's Board of Directors is comprised of nine co-op owners who are elected by the general ownership and serve a three-year term. Any co-op owner can run for a board position. Participating in co-op elections is your ownership in action – get to know the owners who represent you!

MEET ABBEY

My hometown is Kansas City, Kansas, where I love visiting the Merc's second store location. My day job is with the regional AmeriCorps agency office located in Kansas City, where I support AmeriCorps grantees and volunteer service members across the country. In my free time I love taking walks and bike rides in the neighborhood, hanging out with my cats and my family, and traveling whenever I get a chance.

Why did you choose to join the board?

  • I joined the board because I value the Merc's presence in my neighborhood. I wanted the chance to learn more about how the co-op runs, and help support its success here.

What part of the co-op's mission do you connect with the most, and why?

  • I really connect with the Merc's mission to serve as a responsibly operated business that works for the success of all its owners - who are also cooperatively and personally invested in that success. I'm glad this is happening right in my neighborhood.

What's something you've gained from participating on this board?

  • I have learned so much what sets a co-op business apart from other businesses. And I learn more about my own neighborhood and neighbors in every meeting I attend.

What's one thing you hope the co-op achieves/works towards during your term as a director?

  • I hope the Merc builds its visibility in the Kansas City area - both in my corner of KCK, but also attracts visitors and friends from all over the larger Kansas City metro area.

Why should owners consider becoming a director?

  • Serving as a director has been a great way to meet and get to know other owners who love the Merc and care about helping it succeed. It's also such a great opportunity to have a voice in exciting decisions about the future of the Merc.

What is your favorite food or product the co-op carries?