Board of Directors Interview Series – Anneka Kindler

Meet Anneka Kindler

When did you become a member of the Co-op? 

20 years ago, pretty much as soon as I moved to Brattleboro. Having recently gone vegan, I was beyond thrilled to find a store with so many options, and such a welcoming vibe.

What do you do for a living?

I manage book contracts and royalties at Echo Point Books & Media

How do you like to spend your spare time?

These days I love to spend time with friends, doing just about anything, checking out movies or live music, cooking in, eating out, day trips, walking, hiking, you name it. I’m also a bit of a word nerd and enjoy word games, languages, puzzles, etc.

Are you a member of any other cooperatives?

Nope, just this one!

How have you spent these last 20 pandemic months?

The last 20 were way better than the first 20!! I worked full time during the pandemic, from home for a few months, and then back in the office when that was allowed. I’m very happy to be Zooming less and getting out in the world more. This year I got a little vegetable gardening going.

What brought you to this area?

I had always loved Vermont whenever I visited, and had it in the back of my mind to figure out how to spend more time here ‘someday’. I was living in DC when September 11th happened, which triggered some pretty serious soul searching. I went on a few scouting trips to check out potential relocation destinations around VT and nearby. Brattleboro just kinda felt like home, and happily still does.

What do you like most about our Co-op? 

Aside from all the fantastic and healthy food, I think what I like most is that it feels like a community, and not just a store. 

What’s your most favorite Co-op food item?

The first things that come to mind are: Tavernier Chocolates, the deli’s lemon-pepper grilled tempeh, Kite Hill almond ricotta, and the grab n go stuffed grape leaves.

With what person, alive or dead, would you like to have lunch, and why?

Stacey Abrams – she lights a spark and gets me inspired. And also seems like a fun interesting person to talk to.

What drew you to serve on the Brattleboro Food Co-op Board of Directors?

I decided to run for the Board after learning about the vacancies from Board member Denise Glover. The pandemic really crystalized for me the importance of actively engaging and supporting the things you want to have in your community. To me having ethical, locally owned businesses is a vital, and serving on the Co-op Board is a great opportunity get immersed in cooperative principles while actively supporting the Co-op and its mission. 

What do you like the most about being on the Board of Directors?

Ask me in a few months!