Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op

Ryan Betzler

Candidate for the Board of Directors · 2026

Maintaining the Co-op's mission with financial stability and sustained growth.

I grew up in Sacramento, and now my wife and I are raising our family here. Life is full with a toddler, two dogs named Luna and Stella, and our cat, Thunder.

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Why I'm Running

The Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op has become part of our routine. We are there every week, usually arriving by bike. Whether we're grabbing groceries, picking up dinner after a busy day, or stopping to say hello to familiar faces, it's one of the places that makes Sacramento feel like home.

I believe places like the Co-op are worth protecting. A successful co-op depends on thoughtful leadership, responsible financial stewardship, and staying true to the values that brought people together in the first place. I'd be honored to help contribute to that as a member of the Board of Directors.

Ryan and his daughter picking out peppers at the Co-op

What I'd Bring to the Board

Most of my career has centered around helping organizations make thoughtful financial decisions while staying focused on the people they serve.

Food business owner

My wife and I owned and operated a from scratch organic restaurant in Big Bear Lake for five years. We led a team of more than 30 employees, grew the business year after year, and successfully navigated the challenges of the COVID pandemic. Running a small business taught me firsthand how important responsible budgeting, long term planning, and good leadership really are.

Disaster Recovery

As a FEMA disaster loss verifier, I worked with families and business owners after natural disasters to document losses and help them qualify for federal assistance. The work required attention to detail, fairness, and compassion during some of the most difficult moments in people's lives.

Nonprofit Experience

I've worked alongside nonprofit organizations to secure government and corporate funding, organize community events, and support programs that serve local communities. Throughout that work, I've seen that organizations are strongest when they balance financial responsibility with a clear sense of purpose.

Co-op Member & Employee

Today, I have the unique opportunity to experience the Co-op from both sides. As both a member and an employee, I see the care that goes into serving our community every day. That perspective would help me represent the interests of members while understanding the realities of day to day operations.

My Approach to Board Service

If elected, I won't pretend to have every answer. I'll come prepared, ask thoughtful questions, listen carefully, and work collaboratively with my fellow board members. My goal is simple: to help ensure the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op remains a place our community can depend on for generations to come.

As both a member and an employee, I have a unique perspective on what makes the Co-op special. I understand the importance of creating an exceptional experience for members while also recognizing the hard work and dedication of the employees who make that experience possible every day.

If elected, I'll work to represent the interests of the entire Co-op community. That means supporting thoughtful financial decisions, protecting the Co-op's mission, and helping ensure it continues to thrive for members, employees, and future generations alike.

Ryan walking hand in hand with his daughter outside the Co-op

Important Election Dates

By Aug 10Make sure your membership is current, you've shopped within the past 12 months, and your email address is on file so you can receive your electronic ballot.
Jul 25Annual Meeting and Meet the Candidates, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Co-op.
Aug 25Voting begins. Electronic ballots are emailed to eligible members, and paper ballots are available at Customer Service.
Sep 3Meet the Candidates event.
Sep 15Final day to vote electronically or return your paper ballot at the Co-op.

Get in Touch

Have a question, or a thought about the Co-op's future? Send a note — it comes straight to me.

Hearing what matters to members is the whole reason I'm running. I read every message.