Support the Co-op Model for an Umbrella Organization

[Cylia Wong]

Various decision-makers are determining which model will best serve as
an Umbrella Organization responsible to help people in communities to
create more gardens. A co-op model is being offered by VCAN and is
entitled Urban Food Growers Co-op. See the attached proposal in the
files. I believe this would be the best option because:

· It would reduce political influence by the City.

· It would be representative of the stakeholder groups (community
gardens, individuals, urban agriculture organizations and the City of
Vancouver)

· The majority of power (most votes) would be where it should be, with
the community gardeners.

· Governance is shared by all parties.

· A co-op could become a charity and gain the benefits (beneficial to
individuals, businesses, sponsors for tax write-offs). Promotes
independence and ongoing self-sustainability.

If you believe as I do that gardeners need help in setting up more
gardens, please write a letter of support for this initiative and send
to VCAN. Thanks. cylia