Board Elections

Want to contribute more to your community? Become a Board Member!

Download the 2026 Board of Directors Application here!

Submit your application by March 13th, 2026.

• Our Mission Statement: At Natural Harvest Food Co-op, we are committed to a sustainable future through communication, cooperation, and education. We provide quality food, products, and services for the health and well-being of our families, our community, and our plane

• Our Goals / Ends Policies:
  • A broad region of shoppers that are connected to the strengths, inclusiveness, and relationships of our thriving local economy.
  • Community members are aware of local health and wellness opportunities.
  • People in our area have access to healthy food, products, and resources.
  • Our shoppers have access to a network of producers that help sustain a regional food system.

• NHFC desires people with the following attributes to join our Board of Directors
  • Willingness to engage and participate in accomplishing our mission.
  • People who exhibit ubuntu. “Ubuntu” is a South African philosophical concept and value system meaning “humanity towards others”. It is a quality that includes the essential human virtues of compassion, kindness, and humanity.
  • Eager to learn – experience in areas such as finance, marketing, technology, legal, or knowledge in the food-chain/grocery retail sector is helpful, but is not required. We welcome diverse backgrounds and provide many opportunities to learn and develop helpful skills.

• What does it mean to be a NHFC Board Member?
  • 3 year term
  • 9 member team with 4 executive positions (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer) and 3 standing committees – GM Evaluation, Perpetuation, Education (3 members each)
  • Participate in monthly Board meetings, committee meetings, an annual Board retreat, the Annual Owners meeting, ad hoc committee meetings and occasional volunteer events.
  • Make a difference in the lives of your loved ones and community!

• Why become a NHFC Board Member?
  • Contribute your skills and talents to a successful and dynamic organization – Natural Harvest Food Coop thrives with leaders willing to share their ideas, time, and experience with like-minded individuals working together to ensure the continued success of the organization and positive impact to our community.
  • Professional development / Strengthen leadership skills based on Cooperative Principles – being a member of the Board gives you free access to education and training opportunities through partnerships with Columinate (a national consulting cooperative) and National Co-op Grocerers (NCG).
  • Give back to the community – help our local businesses and community thrive by promoting and supporting the entire food supply chain – from local growers and producers, distributors, and consumers.
  • Build your legacy / Be a part of history – the Iron Range and surrounding areas have a long history of building cooperative organizations that serve and strengthen our communities.
    • NHFC was established in 1979 and many other Iron Range communities have had food co-ops spanning generations. Embarrass (1909-1963) and Finland (1913-present) are great examples.
    • Whether you’ve been here for a year or several decades – we welcome your commitment and contributions to ensure NHFC continues to build a community legacy we can all be proud of.
  • Represent your neighbors and friends – Located in Virginia, MN, NHFC serves communities across the Iron Range. More than 46% of our 4,500+ members live in surrounding areas outside the Quad Cities (Virginia, Mountain Iron, Eveleth, Gilbert), with Cook and Tower boasting the highest membership/population at 24% and 22% respectively. Board members from surrounding communities ensure all voices are heard and that NHFC will be around for future generations.
  • Promote a healthy community – Being a NHFC Board member takes “Leading by Example” to a whole new level and exponentially expands your ability to promote healthy lifestyles. Ensuring we all have easy and affordable access to healthy food choices builds stronger individuals, families, and communities.
  • Meaningful work aligned with your values – this is a great opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals who share your values. We foster healthy minds and bodies, provide services and products to strengthen our community, and work toward a better future for all.

If interested in learning more, please contact one of the following NHFC Board members:

Mike Nystrom (Mike@naturalharvest.coop) or Carla Parrish (Carla@naturalharvest.coop)