The seed: Learning about co-ops
Last year, Lia Warrick went with her friend, Jackie Farrow – now of Wellspring co-op Recovery Through Innovation – to the Massachusetts Solidarity Economy Network gathering in Holyoke, co-organized by Wellspring.
The excitement of the discussions and the atmosphere of community stuck with Lia. She decided that if she started another business – she’s also a realtor – it would be a co-op.
A new co-op is born
Fast forward to January 2026. Lia and a group of four chosen family members decided to open Taste of Tradition, a restaurant in Indian Orchard.
They chose to develop it as a co-op – and Wellspring was there to help them every step of the way. We also helped the new co-op secure accounting services and a grant for equipment.
- Hear Lia of Taste of Tradition speak about how Wellspring helped her on her co-op journey.
- Help us help more co-ops grow in Springfield and Holyoke by giving an early gift to our Giving Tuesday campaign!
- Support Taste of Tradition and enjoy their diverse menu of comfort food any day of the week at 174 Main Street in Indian Orchard.