2024 Board Candidate: Gurcharan Singh

Why are you interested in serving on the Board?

I am interested in serving on the Board of Takoma Coop because I am deeply committed to supporting organizations that foster a sense of community and promote cooperative values. Takoma Coop plays a vital role in providing access to healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced products, which aligns with my passion for social responsibility and sustainability.

Tell us about yourself, including any volunteer or professional experiences that might be relevant to board service.

I have a diverse professional background, with extensive experience in governance, strategic planning, and oversight of large-scale projects, including roles where I have managed budgets and financial performance. My career has been largely focused on working with organizations like the World Bank, where I spent over a decade in IT, introducing innovations such as e-procurement systems and developing Framework Agreements. In these roles, I have been responsible for overseeing multi-million-dollar budgets and ensuring that financial performance aligns with strategic goals.

Additionally, I have been actively involved in community-driven initiatives and have volunteered my time to causes that promote sustainable development and social responsibility. I am passionate about applying technology, such as artificial intelligence, to enhance service delivery and operational efficiency, which I believe could be valuable to Takoma Coop as it navigates future growth.

Serving on the board would allow me to leverage my experience in financial oversight, strategic governance, and community engagement to help ensure the Coop’s long-term sustainability and continued success.

Why is the TPSS Co-op important to you?

The TPSS Co-op is important to me because it represents the core values of community, sustainability, and cooperation that I deeply admire. The Co-op is not just a grocery store; it is a community resource that prioritizes the well-being of its members and the environment. It supports local farmers and producers, promotes sustainable and healthy living, and fosters a sense of connection among its members.

As someone who values social responsibility and the importance of making ethical choices in everyday life, I see TPSS Co-op as a vital part of our community’s ecosystem. The Co-op’s mission to provide healthy, locally sourced products while maintaining a democratic, member-driven structure is something I strongly believe in. It’s an organization that aligns with my personal values, and I want to contribute to its continued success and growth.

What is your favorite co-operative principle and why?

For me, this principle is particularly important because it goes beyond transactions and profits. It reflects the idea that we are all interconnected, and the strength of our community relies on the well-being of every member. The TPSS Co-op’s commitment to this principle—through its support of local businesses, environmental sustainability, and inclusive decision-making—makes it a pillar of the Takoma Park community. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to an organization that prioritizes the collective good and works to improve the quality of life for everyone it serves.

Why are diversity and equity important to you, and how do these principles show up in your life?

In my personal and professional life, I have always championed inclusivity. Whether in my work at the World Bank, where I was involved in international projects that aimed to uplift underserved populations, or in my community efforts, I make it a priority to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. I strive to create environments where people feel valued and empowered, regardless of their background.

These principles guide my interactions and decisions, from mentoring colleagues to supporting local initiatives that promote equity. I believe that by embracing diversity and prioritizing equity, we can build stronger, more resilient communities—principles that I see reflected in the work of the TPSS Co-op, and which I hope to continue to support as a board member.

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