Exploring Open Harvest Co-Op in Lincoln
Traveling through Nebraska, particularly in the city of Lincoln, offers a unique opportunity to experience the state's vibrant food scene. One notable destination is Open Harvest Co-Op, a member-owned cooperative grocery store dedicated to providing high-quality, locally sourced products. Located at 1618 S Street in Lincoln's historic Near South neighborhood, Open Harvest has been a staple of the community since its founding in 1975.
Open Harvest's commitment to sourcing products from local farmers and producers sets it apart from traditional grocery stores. The co-op partners with suppliers such as Branched Oak Farm, a family-owned farm in Raymond, Nebraska, to offer fresh produce to its customers. Additionally, Open Harvest works with local bakeries like the famous Runza Drive-In, a Nebraska institution since 1949, to provide a wide variety of baked goods.
The co-op's business model is based on member-ownership, where individuals can purchase a lifetime membership for a one-time fee. This model allows Open Harvest to operate independently, free from the pressures of corporate interests, and to prioritize the needs of its members and the local community. As a result, Open Harvest is able to invest a significant portion of its profits back into the community, through initiatives such as its annual Co-Op Cares event, which raises funds for local charities.
Open Harvest Co-Op's product selection reflects its commitment to quality and community. The store features a wide variety of organic and natural food products, including a bulk foods section with grains, nuts, and dried fruits. The co-op also carries a selection of locally crafted beer and wine, including offerings from Nebraska's own breweries, such as Great Plains Brewery in Lincoln.
In addition to its products, Open Harvest Co-Op is also committed to education and community outreach. The co-op offers regular cooking classes, workshops, and events, focusing on topics such as nutrition, food preservation, and sustainable living. These events provide opportunities for members and non-members alike to engage with the co-op and learn more about healthy eating and sustainable food systems.
As a member of the cooperative, individuals also have the opportunity to participate in the store's decision-making process through regular meetings and elections. This unique approach to governance allows Open Harvest to truly reflect the values and priorities of its membership.
Open Harvest Co-Op serves as a model for community-based food systems, demonstrating the potential for grocery stores to operate as positive forces within their communities. By supporting local farmers, offering high-quality products, and engaging with its members, Open Harvest Co-Op provides a unique shopping experience that reflects the values of the Lincoln community.
Whether you are a local or just passing through, Open Harvest Co-Op is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the food scene in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Open Harvest's commitment to sourcing products from local farmers and producers sets it apart from traditional grocery stores. The co-op partners with suppliers such as Branched Oak Farm, a family-owned farm in Raymond, Nebraska, to offer fresh produce to its customers. Additionally, Open Harvest works with local bakeries like the famous Runza Drive-In, a Nebraska institution since 1949, to provide a wide variety of baked goods.
The co-op's business model is based on member-ownership, where individuals can purchase a lifetime membership for a one-time fee. This model allows Open Harvest to operate independently, free from the pressures of corporate interests, and to prioritize the needs of its members and the local community. As a result, Open Harvest is able to invest a significant portion of its profits back into the community, through initiatives such as its annual Co-Op Cares event, which raises funds for local charities.
Open Harvest Co-Op's product selection reflects its commitment to quality and community. The store features a wide variety of organic and natural food products, including a bulk foods section with grains, nuts, and dried fruits. The co-op also carries a selection of locally crafted beer and wine, including offerings from Nebraska's own breweries, such as Great Plains Brewery in Lincoln.
In addition to its products, Open Harvest Co-Op is also committed to education and community outreach. The co-op offers regular cooking classes, workshops, and events, focusing on topics such as nutrition, food preservation, and sustainable living. These events provide opportunities for members and non-members alike to engage with the co-op and learn more about healthy eating and sustainable food systems.
As a member of the cooperative, individuals also have the opportunity to participate in the store's decision-making process through regular meetings and elections. This unique approach to governance allows Open Harvest to truly reflect the values and priorities of its membership.
Open Harvest Co-Op serves as a model for community-based food systems, demonstrating the potential for grocery stores to operate as positive forces within their communities. By supporting local farmers, offering high-quality products, and engaging with its members, Open Harvest Co-Op provides a unique shopping experience that reflects the values of the Lincoln community.
Whether you are a local or just passing through, Open Harvest Co-Op is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the food scene in Lincoln, Nebraska.
