The Co-op is one of the first--is THE first--job where I felt that I was part of a family; a family that has my back. A family that is encouraging when I need guidance and gives enthusiastic acknowledgement when I excel on my own. This is something I never had as a child growing up with my actual family. It’s something that I’ve grown to recognize as true community. It took me awhile to get here, but it’s worth the wait to feel like I belong—like my input matters and I’m doing my part in making a difference.
Most people don’t get to choose their family, but through a rare chain of events, I did. I’ve grown so much in just under one year and I don’t think I could have made it through without this place to keep me connected. I’m happy to say that all of my friends work here. ALL OF YOU DESERVE A WOW [ed: an award Co-op employees receive when they go above and beyond what is expected]. I’m in awe of how great you are at being good.