Azure drop spots are as unique as our customers.
We have big drops, and little drops. Drops that are old and drops that are new. Drops that get a delivery once a week. Drops that get a delivery once a month. Drops who are managed by one volunteer, and other drops that are managed by multiple volunteers.
It's the uniqueness of these drops that provides such a diverse and beautiful Azure presence in communities all across the United States.
It's also the fundamental similarities of these drops that keep Azure growing. Did you know we currently have more than 2,800 drops in 39 states? That means we have at least 2,800 different drop coordinators – all volunteers – from across our country, sharing Azure with others. If you're new to Azure, chances are we can find a drop in or near your community.
Each day the Route Care Team answers hundreds of emails and phone calls, supporting both current drop coordinators and new drop coordinators alike. From adding a new drop manager, changing a drop location, or asking for support to share Azure in their community the Route Care Team is excited to offer specialized care to the needs of our Drop Coordinators.
And through the years, we've found several similarities that healthy drops share.
Passion: While the drive behind the passion may be different for each drop coordinator, it's their passion for affordable, healthy food that makes it possible for drops to thrive! Passion is contagious, especially when we're passionate about the right things. At any Azure drop spot, there’s a sense of togetherness, community, a drive to be part of something healthy and life-giving, to share and grow. And that’s a huge part of Azure’s Core Values, too.
Communication: We all know that communication is key in every healthy relationship, and it's no different in coordinating a drop. Communicating information to and on behalf of Azure guarantees that your drop community receives the very best experience possible. More to the point, a drop spot takes on a whole new level of community – a neighborhood of friends helping friends – when information is shared with drop members. Whether it’s about the truck arrival time, an order cut-off date, or even a new product that’s available at Azure, communication builds connections, creates community.
Organization: Ask any truck driver or customer what they appreciate most about their drop coordinator and chances are you'll hear it's how organized the drop is. Creativity is the avenue by which drop coordinators build. It's always a treat to hear drop coordinators share ideas on how to deal with weather conditions, unloading the truck efficiently, or how they have successfully invited the community to work together on delivery day. As the winter days get shorter, drops may be taking place later than normal or in the dark. One drop manager shared how she suggested everyone bring a flashlight that easily fit in a purse and can help provide extra light. Another drop manager shared how she has her group park their cars facing the back of the truck with their lights on so that everyone can see as they unload. There are many other suggestions we’ve heard shared that we like to pass along to new drops as they develop. It’s a blessing and a joy to see each drop spot come together, rallying behind good, healthy, nurturing food.
Passion, communication and organization – they are essential to drop growth much like soil, sun, and water are essential for healthy plant growth.
Of course, there are multiple supplements we can add to promote healthy plant growth just like there are multiple ideas to help promote drop growth. I remember when I went out on a week of deliveries with my husband and participated in multiple deliveries. I was encouraged by the since of community and support. There were drops sharing recipes, others offering sneak peaks at their orders and sharing their excitement about a new product they were trying. Other drops had just finished a play date for the children at a nearby park before they grabbed their Azure items to head home. Each drop was growing together to support and encourage one another in unique ways.
Azure will continue to grow within communities across the United States as we partner with others who are passionate about their personal journey to healthy living. Together, we are making a difference.
If you'd like to learn more about growing your Azure drop, give the Route Care Team a call at 971-200-8350 and ask for ext. 516. We are happy to listen to your unique needs and develop a plan that fits you best.