Author: Benjamin Miller, Outgoing Karma Chronicle Editor

People need food, but people also need to be needed. And if you’re reading this, I can tell you, you are needed. Karma needs you. 

I’ve been the Chronicle Editor for a year and that’s given me an interesting vantage point on Karma’s current situation and future. You’ve probably noticed in every issue there’s some call for volunteers to join a board or a committee, help out at an event, or just show up to something.  Karma is great and yet everywhere there are inspired and imaginative members and staff thinking of ways to make it better. All we need to make it happen is you. 

You’re enormously important. If you’re helping to set up or close, your labour means something and you can take pride in the clean, bright and welcoming space you’re creating. If you’re on a committee, your voice matters, you vote counts. And Karma committees, whether it’s the Food Issues or Anti-Oppression or Communications (or even the Chronicle) often find themselves discussing issues of enormous importance locally and globally. And that may seem grandiose for a local grocer, but then the loftiest ideals don’t last very long if nobody mops the floor and keeps the lights on. 

It may fascinate you (it certainly fascinated me) to know our most read article of the last year was the advertisement for the AGM. Why? I suspect it’s because what keeps people coming back to Karma is not just what they can take from Karma (i.e. great food!) but what they can give to Karma.

“Where there is no leader, be a leader” goes the proverb. If I could leave nothing else with you, it’s this. Karma needs you. So please consider taking up the mantle of the Chronicle or some other role in Karma. We will all be better for it.

For more details on what’s needed read Andrea Dawber’s article titled Karma’s Financial Position and Plans in this issue to find out more about ongoing and upcoming co-op activities and more information. Or contact manager@karmacoop.org or board@karmacoop.org to find out other ways you can become involved.