Adam LaFaci, President
Adam is currently earning a Masters in Social Work at UCONN. He has 15 years of program development experience working with national associations, nonprofits, and serving on arts-related boards.
About the Farmington River Food Co-op
The northwest corner of Connecticut has everything needed for a strong local food system: dedicated farmers, engaged communities, and a demand for fresh food. All we need is a co-op!
Our Mission
We are a community-driven initiative working to open a member-owned, cooperative, full-service grocery store that makes good food from local growers and grocery suppliers available at a fair price to all residents in the northwest corner of CT, while empowering the local community through sustainable practices, food-centric education, and outreach. Our core values are:
- Offering daily access to fresh and varied foods at a fair price.
- Running a sustainable cooperatively owned business where the community has a voice in its governance and growth.
- Prioritizing local producers/farmers and their products on our shelves.
- Creating good jobs at or above living wage with benefits, training, and growth opportunities.
- Creating a community space that brings diverse populations together around food and health resources.
Our Board of Directors
John Burdick, Vice President
John has over 30 years of experience in venture capital, including co-founder of a cheese company. Serves on several town commissions as well as several community organizations’ boards.
Dawn Whalen, Treasurer
Nonprofit practitioner working mostly in fair housing, with 15 years of executive experience in operations and development. Active in New Hartford since 2006 through various community organizations.
Nora Bishop, Secretary
Executive function coach and business consultant with human services public sector experience in Connecticut. Serves on the Barkhamsted Recreation Commission.
Mary Beth Greenwood
Serves on the New Hartford Board of Selectmen. She is a small business owner and environmental training consultant, working in property management, contractor supply, and sales. Over 30 years as a New Hartford resident.
Kim Becker
Holds leadership positions with Granby nonprofits including the Education Foundation and senior housing organization. She also serves as a Justice of the Peace and on the Granby Commission on Aging.
Saquana Seltzer
Saquana is a farmer, business owner, and community advocate based in New Hartford, CT. She is the founder and operator of High Silo Farm, a diversified organic market garden and heritage livestock farm focused on strengthening local food systems through regenerative and sustainable agriculture.
Daniel Steadman
Raised in New Hartford, Dan is a computer programmer with over 10 years of experience. Helps manage family Christmas tree farms and serves on the Economic Development Commission.
J.R. Mortimer
Editor for The History Channel and author of Mutual Aid for Beginners, J.R. has 15 years of experience in publishing, website design, and retail merchandising.
Join Us
We're in the early stages of building our co-op and we need your help. Whether you want to become a founding member, volunteer your time, or simply stay informed, we'd love to hear from you.
hello@farmingtonriverfood.coop
P.O. Box #46
New Hartford, CT 06057