In a nutshell...
Think Local, Chico! is an alliance of independent, locally owned businesses, service providers, community organizations and individuals committed to this region, its unique identity and quality of life.
Our mission is to encourage citizens to exchange, locally, as many goods and services as possible in order to make our community a healthy, vibrant and more prosperous place to live.
As a member of the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), we're part of a nationwide network committed to local living economies. Click here for BALLE's Living Economy Principles.
What do we do?
We raise awareness among business owners and citizens about the economic and social benefits of supporting locally owned, independent businesses. We host seasonal members-only events and partner with other local groups who share our vision of a living economy.
Unlike other emerging Buy Local efforts, we are focused on all sectors of the economy -- not just retail which comprises about 7% of a local economy. Our living economy Building Blocks are: zero-waste manufacturing, green building, independent retail, sustainable agriculture, professional services, arts & culture, independent media, healthcare, renewable energy and community capital.
How do we do it?
We network, host events, produce marketing and educational materials, collaborate with our members for their events, engage volunteers in the community, and do media outreach. Our 10% Shift campaign asks citizens to Pledge to shift 10% of their annual spending to locally owned independent businesses (click here for the definition/criteria). Our ongoing Buy Local Campaign happens year-round. Our future online Think Local Guide and local gift card program are in the works!
Our Board of Directors includes:
Debra Lucero, Friends of the Arts
Erin Wade, Butte College
Maisie Jane Hurtado, Maisie Jane's California Sunshine Products
Marc Kessler, California Organic Flowers
Maria Venturino, Red Tavern
Seth Godfrey, Golden Valley Bank
Val Reddemann, Greenfeet.com