The Rise Community Market, a co-operatively owned grocery store in Cairo, Illinois, celebrated its grand opening with an event that highlighted the extraordinary partnership of local leaders, volunteers, granting organizations, and educational institutions. This collaborative effort involved entities such as the University of Illinois Foundation, Illinois R3, Builder's Initiative, Western Illinois University, and the University of Illinois Extension's SNAP-Ed program.
Cairo, like many other communities grappling with food scarcity, faces challenges such as declining population densities, income inequality, and limited access to nutritious food due to transportation issues.
John Shadowens, a community economic development educator from Illinois Extension, along with Sean Park from Western Illinois University, have played pivotal roles in the Rise project. Shadowens emphasizes the community's strength and determination, stating that when citizens unite to address a need, ample external assistance and resources become available.
The grand opening ceremony witnessed a vibrant gathering of supporters, staff, and special guests, marking the culmination of the project that began with the formation of a steering committee in May 2022. Led by Store Manager Robert Edwards and Assistant Manager Paul Kaina, the Rise Community Market serves as a bright and welcoming space for Cairo residents. Additionally, it houses the Rise and Shine Café, the city's second full-time restaurant.
Gabrielle Harris, the president of the Rise Community Market's board, expressed gratitude to the community, volunteers, and funders who contributed to the realization of this project. The market operates on a collaborative funding model, where individuals can become co-owners by contributing $100 for a lifetime membership. While ownership is not required for shopping, co-owners enjoy additional discounts on select items and have a voice in shaping the store's future direction.
The Rise Community Market underwent extensive remodeling, outfitting, and stocking through a robust partnership with various organizations, including SIDEZ, Kroger, Cairo Public Utilities, Clearwave Fiber, HCCTP, Winkler Foods, and Tri-State Food Bank. Generous grants exceeding $700,000 from the University of Illinois Foundation, R3, US Rural Development, Builder's Initiative, and other donations made this transformation possible.
Special guest Lt. Governor Julianna Stratton commended Cairo as a model for entrepreneurship and collaboration that can inspire communities across Illinois. She emphasized that access to healthy food is not merely about groceries but also about justice. Projects like Rise serve as catalysts for positive change, creating a ripple effect of goodness.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-artiemedvedev
Categories: Illinois, Business