This month’s meeting had a presentation from Start Making a Reader Today and Montavilla Food Co-op.

Both organizations, as well as the MNA, have opportunities for volunteers available.

SMART is needing substitute volunteers to help students in local schools with their reading. Their representative said now’s a good time to get involved because neighbors can take on substitute shifts without having to commit to a full school year.

SMART has opportunities in all three of the public schools in Montavilla.

Montavilla Co-op is seeking volunteers for their board as they reach a critical threshold in their mission to bring a member-owned grocery store to the neighborhood. The co-op representatives also answered some challenging questions about the co-op’s progress.

Here’s a page on the co-op’s website where questions about their progress are answered. You can also submit your own questions there.

The MNA board also considered a proposal to allow Angela Todd, one of the founders of the Montavilla Initiative, become a member of the MNA. She said her volunteer work in the neighborhood and the fact that she lives on the boundary line as reasons she should be accepted.

Also, board member Patricia Sanders stepped down from the board. She said she needed more time for personal projects, including those regarding Montavilla history.

The MNA is seeking volunteers for its board, as well as help with other elements of the organization.