We hear “shop local” a lot. It shows up on storefronts, in holiday campaigns, and in reminders to spend our dollars close to home. While keeping those dollars circulating in our community matters, another side of the story sometimes gets overlooked.
What does local give back to us?
The question is timely as Local First Foundation welcomes Andrea Wright Parmenter as its new Executive Director. Parmenter brings nearly two decades of community involvement in Durango and a professional background in organizational development, project management, and leadership.
She first connected with Local First nearly 15 years ago, when, as Vice President of the Needham Elementary PTO, she used the organization’s Be Local Coupon Book to raise funds for the school. Local businesses participated, families supported them, and money flowed back to students.
It was local giving back in a very tangible way.
Since then, Parmenter has served two terms on the Durango School District Board of Education, worked with the Durango Renewal Partnership, and partnered with businesses and community organizations.
For Local First Foundation Board President Claire Attkisson, locally owned businesses also help make this place feel like home. Beyond the mountains, rivers, and connection to the land, she says independent businesses provide a “deeper connection to place.”
Consider the local outdoor shop, owned and staffed by people who know the trails, rivers, and the gear needed to enjoy them safely. That knowledge and personal connection are hard to separate from living here.
Attkisson believes that locally owned businesses are a cornerstone of community life and essential to building a sustainable local economy.
There’s a measurable ripple, too. According to the American Independent Business Alliance, an average of 52.9 percent of purchases at locally owned independent businesses recirculates locally, compared with less than 13.6 percent at chain stores. Those dollars can create more local jobs, support charitable giving, and build community wealth.
And then there are the contributions that are harder to measure.
Local businesses sponsor youth teams, support the arts and nonprofits, contribute to school fundraisers, and put their names on community events. Owners serve on boards, volunteer, and step forward when neighbors need help.
As Parmenter steps into her new role, it’s wonderfully full circle to return to the organization where she first encountered it at a neighborhood school fundraiser.
For a season centered on giving thanks, perhaps that’s worth remembering.
Supporting local isn’t only about what we give. Sometimes it’s worth noticing how much local gives back.
Article by Denise Leslie
Photography by Courtesy of Local First
Originally published in Durango City Lifestyle