Owner spotlight: Justine Johnson

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Justine Johnson wasted no time joining the Macomb Food Co-op last fall when she came to Macomb as WIU’s first Interpersonal Violence Prevention Coordinator – she even asked if there was a local food co-op during her interview! Justine grew up in the southeastern part of Minnesota and has always been familiar with food co-ops, which are more common in the Upper Midwest than in downstate Illinois. Having shopped at various co-ops for most of her life, she was disappointed to hear that Macomb lacked a food co-op, but she didn’t doubt for a minute that our area could be home to a thriving locally-owned and -stocked, cooperatively-managed grocery store. With her help, it will be! Justine is a life-long activist, having served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Kyrgyzstan and with too many councils and groups committed to social causes to list here. She brings a wide perspective and a desire to make friends and settle into the community, to the Macomb Food Co-op as an owner and as a member of the Events Committee. Justine values the connection between food, health, and community and believes that the Macomb Food Co-op will help people like her be better able to “engage in something we do three times a day.” Well, when you put it like that, Justine, it seems like an easy choice!Justine’s co-op roots:

  • She remembers buying oats and Minnesota apples with her dad at the neighborhood food co-op growing up; those shopping trips were lessons on appreciating quality.
  • She was a student-owner of the food co-op in her college town, and although she didn’t have much time left over after studying to be involved in that co-op she is already very active in this one!

Why she became an owner:

  • to be a part of something outside of the University
  • to help start up and support a local business
  • to meet people (small store size and active patrons mean new friends)
  • in summary, because “it just makes sense”

What (and how!) Justine looks forward to buying at the Co-op:

  • She can’t wait for easy access to wholesome foods that will help her meet her dietary needs as a vegan.
  • She points out that buying in bulk (a common arrangement at food co-ops) is a great money saver too.

Justine on the Fun Committee, I mean, the Events Committee:

  • Who doesn’t like meeting nice folks and serving a good cause while attending great events?
  • “I feel good about what I’m doing, and I feel connected.”

 

Thanks for your energy and drive as a charter Co-op owner, Justine!

If you are willing to be featured in an upcoming Owner Spotlight please contact info@macombfoodcoop.net
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