The heart of any co-op is its member-owners, and that is certainly true of the Fredericksburg Food Co-op. This monthly feature will tell you more about some of the member-owners who give their time and talents to help us on our path toward opening a free-standing, locally owned grocery store. Want to help out? Contact us about volunteering!

Name: Cathy and Clayton Duncan

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

We have been married for 40 years this October and have two grown sons. We have owned our home in Stafford for 17 years; from 2009-2013 we lived in California while Clayton finished his career with the Air Force. Cathy is a Nurse Practitioner at the Moss Free Clinic. Our Food Co-op member number is 177.

How did you hear about the Fredericksburg Food Co-op and why did you become a member?

Cathy saw the Food Co-op table at the farmers’ market and was instantly interested in the concept and having a “year round” farmers’ market.

What volunteer work do you do with the Co-op, and what do you like most about volunteering?

Clayton and Cathy are both involved in the capital loan campaign. Cathy helped organize the recent Speakeasy fundraising event, is a member of the MOVE committee, and helps at the farmers’ market  table. We are both committed to seeing the co-op store become a reality.

What are you most looking forward to about the Co-op?

We are most excited to have local products available year-round, and to have a community gathering place.

What is your favorite thing about the Fredericksburg food scene?

Fredericksburg has such a variety of locally owned, ethnic eating establishments to choose from. The outdoor eating spaces make Fredericksburg friendly.

One local food experience is not possible. Benny’s Vitali’s pizza, and Billiken’s Smokehouse are not to be missed.

What advice would you have for someone considering becoming a Food Co-op member?

Co-op membership provides a unique opportunity to be part of a sustainable community project that benefits a diverse population.