Co-op News (August 2019)

As part of its year-long centenary celebrations,
the society set up a 100 Year Community Fund
and 100 hours’ colleague volunteering. Launched
in April, fund invited applications from local
charities, schools and community groups needing
funding for a project that will help them make a
real difference in their community, and can be
completed in 100 days. The 10 successful projects
will each receive £1,000 to carry out the work.
Colleagues also volunteered to support
community projects and initiatives that are close
to their hearts, while customers were invited to
take part in a competition run in partnership with
Jersey Dairy to create a new flavour of ice cream. On
the week of the anniversary, the society hosted an
event at the Jersey Zoo attended by 350 members
and colleagues. Another initiative saw colleagues
and members plant 100 trees.
Customers also benefited from promotions with
£100 off a selected range of goods in non-food
stores and double dividend days.
The society shared stories from past decades
in local press, trying to raise awareness about
its contribution to the local community. The
celebratory activities were highlighted on social
media using the hashtag #CICOOP100.
“Like the founding members in 1919 we are
temporary custodians of the business,” said
Mr Winn, “and we need to ensure we plan for
future generations so we are around for the next
100 years. In terms of what’s next, it is doing more
of the same and sharing our stories a lot more.”
Right: Families enjoy the celebration at
Jersey Zoo. Below a Channel Island Co-op
AUGUST 2019 | 47