NCGA Hosts ‘My Co-op Rocks’

In its third year, the My Co-op Rocks Video and Photo Contest seeks creative entries from fans of food cooperatives.

Through Oct. 31, anyone age 18 and up is invited to submit up-to-2-minute videos or co-op themed photos in the nationwide competition that offers more than $2,700 in prizes. Submissions will be accepted through the end of the month at www.MyCoopRocks.coop.

“Grocery co-ops reflect the communities in which they reside,” said Robynn Shrader, CEO of NCGA. “The contest lets the personality of each co-op’s membership shine, showing the diversity, creativity and passion for co-ops at our member stores and in our food co-op community as a whole.”

Co-op members, shoppers and staff across the country are asked to share their favorite co-op moments, memories and stories online. All skill levels are welcome, whether shooting with a cell phone or high-definition camera.

The contest is hosted by National Cooperative Grocers Association in celebration of the food, qualities and quirks that make co-ops integral parts of their communities. Last year’s submissions and contest details can be found at www.MyCoopRocks.coop after Sept. 1.

Voting will continue through Nov. 30. The public will determine three winners in video category and three in the photography category. Winners will be announced on Dec. 15. In each category, first-place winners receive an Apple iPad 2, second-place winners receive a $500 co-op gift card and third place winners receive a Bloggie Duo HD camera.

Each entrant is eligible for one prize only but individuals may submit as many videos and photos as they like.

Founded in 1999, Iowa City, Iowa-based NCGA is a business services cooperative for retail food co-ops located throughout the United States.