Published in the July 15, 2016 edition
MELROSE — The Sally Frank’s Farmers Market has been operating in Melrose since 1994 and is currently seeking volunteers to help sustain this significant community institution.
The market has recently established a new governance model, including a newly created board of directors. Anyone interested in learning more about the organization and volunteer opportunities is invited to attend the summer planning meeting that will be held on Tuesday, July 26 at 7:30 p.m. in the Trustees Room at the Melrose Public Library.
The current market manager, Cindy Chabot, is stepping down as she can no longer put the huge effort into organizing the farmers market as she has done over the past six years. Since last February, there have been a growing group of people to help establish a more sustainable way of running the farmers market. This new structure includes a volunteer board, coordinators who make sure everything is set for the market each week. Two part time positions have also been added, a SNAP coordinator and market coordinator. The planning meeting will discuss the roles that are still required to be filled to keep the market going.
The board has established a number of operating committees, including volunteer coordination, fundraising, marketing/communication, special events, budget and market management. It takes a great deal of effort to keep the farmers market operating every week. If residents would like to help on ‘market day’ or are interested in joining one of the organizing committees, come to the Planning Meeting on July 26 or contact Laura Kahl at info@melrosefarmersmarket.org.
