Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 1 PM E / 12 PM C / 11 AM M / 10 AM P
From Startup to Staying Power: Lessons from a Lifetime in a Food Co-op
Jan Rasikas, Viroqua Food Co+op
Starting as a passionate, but green, cooperator, Jan Rasikas joined the team just one year after Viroqua Food Co+op opened its doors in 1995. After taking the GM spot in 1999, she has grown her cooperative wisdom while leading the co-op through multiple store expansions and mentoring dozens of cooperators and startup organizers along the way. Having lived both the scrappy early days of the co-op and the long-term realities of operating a thriving, open grocery store, Jan brings a rare, full-arc perspective. She’ll share what she believes organizers should always keep in mind as we build cooperative food futures for our communities.