Your Ownership is the terrific first step that gives you the right to vote for Board members and to run for the Board, giving you input into how the store is governed. And now, as a member-owner, you have another exclusive opportunity: to invest further in your store, in your community, and in your values, with the potential to earn a fair rate of return. Preferred Shares is a long-standing mechanism used by grocery co-ops across the country to raise the money needed to open a store. Preferred Shares demonstrate a loyal customer base and reduce debt service, making the co-op stronger. Donations to the co-op further strengthen our financial position because they do not require interest or dividend payments.