The Co-op Difference
Basics is governed by an elected volunteer board made up of 5 Basics Co-op Owners. They started as Basics shoppers, just like you! Learn more below.
The Basics Board establishes policies to advance the mission and goals of the Co-op, not limited to but including long-term financial planning, approval of major plans or commitments, and supervision of the General Manager (excluding staffing and operational details).
Our volunteer board meets for approximately 2 hours every other month virtually and in person to carry out these duties. An additional 1-2 hours per month participation is encouraged for email discussions and committee projects.
An election is held each May and board members are elected to serve rotating 2-year terms. In keeping with our democratic cooperative governance, any active Co-op Owner can run for election, and all active Co-op Owners are encouraged to vote! In addition to the satisfaction of helping our co-op grow and thrive, board members receive a 5+15% daily discount on most regular-priced items.
2025-2026 Basics Board of Directors
Jim Hutchinson, Board President
Jim Hutchinson has been a Basics supporter since the 1970’s and has served on the Basics Board since 2005. He is a lifetime organic gardener, practices a “heal thyself” approach to wellness and believes the community in which we live is intricately tied to our eating habits and health. As a Basics Board member, Jim enjoys the opportunity to use his experience to strengthen and keep our store a vibrant, nourishing organization for the body and soul. Jim has worked for and served on boards of nonprofit organizations for over 30 years. He currently provides accounting, management and administrative services for nonprofits.
Sarah Hotchkiss
As a licensed therapist, certified health coach and owner of local health coaching service Catalyst Wellness Coaching, Sarah assists others daily in making nutrition and wellness changes for healthy outcomes. Sarah considers Basics her “second home”, and through the Basics Board works to strengthen the co-op’s visibility, efficiency and accessibility for families. She enjoys being part of a team that impacts the local community and affects real change by showing more people in our community the benefit of co-op membership.
Micaela Miller
Micaela is a licensed massage therapist, certified yoga instructor, Birthfit leader, and currently on a path to being a full spectrum doula. She believes in living in harmony with nature, beginning with food. Micaela is passionate about and enjoys reading and learning more about sustainability, regenerative agriculture, nutrition, movement, and general health. She enjoys making a positive impact in our community by serving on the Basics board.
Andrew Timm
Andrew believes in researching and understanding what goes into our food and supporting local food systems. He has experience working with small farms as an electrical engineer and appreciates the in-person learning that happens in the aisles at the co-op.
Carol Kauscher
Carol’s lifetime goal has been to reduce the use of toxic chemicals. As the longtime President and owner of the D’Bug Lady Pest Management Co. she enjoys growing and promoting businesses that serve the public. She also enjoys studying, learning, and sharing how to maintain a healthy mind and body.
Contact the Board
Written communications remain sealed until the next scheduled meeting. Watch for Coffee with the Board sessions to speak with board members in person during select in-store events.
Mail to:
Basics Board of Directors
c/o Basics Cooperative
1711 Lodge Drive
Janesville, WI 53545
Email:
basicscoopboard@gmail.com
Interested in running for Basics Board of Directors?
All active Basics Co-op Owners are eligible, excluding staff. Watch for annual election announcements in The Scoop.
