This month we started a new series called "Meet a Member Owner". You'll hear more about why your neighbors decided to join us.
You probably recognize Sarah's name from all her wonderful blog posts about her garden, Meet Sarah DeGiorgis (officially)!
What do you do for a living?
I work at the University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine in The Office of Faculty Affairs (no, not those kinds of affairs).
Do you have a nickname?
Since no one can pronounce my last name, my friends in college started calling me DeGorgeous. In high school I was Sharna. Lately I prefer "Little Cheetah."
How long have you lived in South Philly?
I have lived here for 2 years but I've been in Philadelphia for a total of 5 years.
Which neighborhood of South Philly do you live in?
Too close to Pat's and Geno's.
What do you like best about your neighborhood?
Friendly neighbors, a mix of different people and lots of young people. Oh, and lots of good food!
How did you hear about the food co-op?
I heard about the co-op in the spring of 2010. I saw a flyer that said something like, "Interested in starting a food co-op in South Philly?" I went online and signed up for the mailing list. I've been writing about growing food and gardening in South Philly for the blog.
Why did you join the food co-op?
The main reason I joined the co-op is that I am unsatisfied with my food purchasing options, not only in South Philly but in other parts of the city. I try to eat lots of vegetables but it's difficult when the only produce available is shipped from across the country and covered in pesticides. A few years ago I was able to solve that problem by joining a CSA (Lancaster Farm Fresh) with my roommates but I was getting too much food and felt bad for having to throw out what I didn't use. Another reason I joined (without getting too philosophical) is because I like that co-ops are all about equality: almost anyone can join because the initial investment is not very much ($200 total in this case, that can be paid in installments) and everyone has to do their allotted volunteer hours each year (8 hours.) Since all members are also owners, all decisions must be voted on so everyone has a say. All this adds up to a nice community of like-minded people who are invested in the co-op.
Kale or Collards?
Both! Leafy green veggies are my favorite!
Thank you for sharing, Sarah!