Fifteen years ago I moved to Madison, Wisconsin's near east side, two blocks from the Willy Street Cooperative grocery store. By default I did my shopping at the "Coop", became a member and began my education as a conscientious consumer. I was submerged in a community of people who lived by the "reduce and reuse" principal.

It wasn't long before I was working at a local organic farm and commuting by bike just about anywhere year round. Years later I came to realize that the practices of my community, in less obvious ways, made an impact on my life that was far greater then I could ever imagine. Their toxin-free practices, car-free lifestyles and support for local business directly effected my safety and health.

Knowing what I know now about lawn pesticides, harmful petroleum byproducts and the dangerous side effects of a stressed and depressed local economy, I am so grateful to that community and all others near and far who understand the resonance of conscientious living.

That super positive community experience was one of my first inspirations for starting Free Market Organics. Because of that community, this company will operate with respect to local environments by offering a "Buy Local" listing supporting the relationship between those wishing to shop at home and those companies with practices that respect local environments.