This National Co-op Month, we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Kristin Fischetti (MO #957)! Not only is Kristin an active Electric City Community Grocery Member Owner, regularly helping at our events, she also works at Honest Weight Food Co-op and is helping organize this weekend’s 2026 New York Cooperative Summit. The summit connects cooperators across sectors, helping them share practical tools, learn from one another, and build relationships that can carry the work forward beyond a single event. Thank you, Kristin, for your contributions to growing democratic ownership and community-rooted economic power across New York!

Learn more about Kristin Fischetti, in her own words:

I was born and raised in Ulster County. I moved to Albany to attend the University at Albany and fell in love with the capital region. I felt a sense of diversity and belonging. I lived in various towns across the capital region but settled in Rotterdam. Earlier this year, I started working for the Civil Service Department of Schenectady County. Yes, I am one of those people who make prospective employees take tests and wait months for a response! I also get to work with the towns, villages, schools, police, and fire departments throughout Schenectady County, helping them recruit and ensure they are following Civil Service Law.

I was introduced to the co-op world in 2020 when I took a part-time job at Honest Weight Food Co-op. I quickly became involved in Governance, chairing the Personnel Committee and serving on the Board. Last year, I attended the NYS Cooperative Summit and learned that there are more than just Food and Housing Co-ops! Any business can be a co-op! I became involved in the planning of the 2026 Summit, which is taking place in Schenectady on October 17th and 18th (www.newyorkcooperative.org). I have also participated in various Electric City Community Grocery events, including the call-a-thon, making pins!

What do you like about being part of the co-op community? 

I love that the co-op community embraces everyone’s individuality and allows them to shine! I can be my true self and contribute how I want to, not need to.

What will having a downtown grocery mean to you?

I am looking forward to being able to support a locally owned grocery store in a place that really needs one. This grocery store exists to serve the community, not serve the CEO or stock holders.

What do you love about Schenectady?

I love the rich history of the City, and I feel like I am learning something new every day.