Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Chambers
June 6, 2014
CUESA’s Volunteer of the Month program recognizes the dedication and work of some of our most active volunteers. CUESA relies on volunteers to help with education programs, special events, public outreach, and other activities that help fulfill our mission to cultivate a sustainable food system. Learn more about volunteering and sign up here.
A veteran CUESA volunteer since June 2010, Jennifer Chambers can be found offering friendly assistance at the Info Booth on Saturdays or lending a helping hand at CUESA’s office and fundraising events, especially the Cocktails of the Farmer Market series. She started volunteering as a way to learn more about and to get involved with the local food community in the Bay Area.
“There are many reasons I love working with Jennifer, not the least of which is her ability to think on her feet and solve problems with grace and minimal direction,” says Director of Development Christine Farren.
“She regularly helps out with CUESA’s fundraising events, where I know she can be counted on to manage logistics related to spatial needs, setup, and communication. She has that amazing blend of attention to detail, organization, and people skills that is needed to work well with others under pressure. I also appreciate how she engages fellow volunteers. She starts conversations, makes everyone feel welcome, and makes the job fun! She really has become a core volunteer.” Meet Jennifer.
CUESA: Where does your interest in food come from?
Jennifer: My interest in sustainable food came from an incredibly inspiring nutrition professor, Linda Bacon, who used to teach at City College. Other than that, I just really enjoy things that taste delicious.
CUESA: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for CUESA?
Jennifer: Drink a lot of coffee, taste a lot of beer, and travel as often as possible.
CUESA: What is your favorite part about volunteering with CUESA?
Jennifer: Helping people feel welcomed at the market, meeting new people, and watching the seasons change by the produce available. The special events are exceptionally important in helping CUESA raise money for all of the free and low-cost classes and programs they host. I’ve volunteered at all but one of the seasonal Cocktails of the Farmers Market events over the last four years. Unfortunately, I can’t make it to one of the biggest events of the year, Summer Celebration, though I look forward to helping out with all of the lead-up tasks that help make this event so special.
CUESA: Do you have an insider market tip or a favorite produce item at the market right now?
Jennifer: I love asking for the greens from peas and fava beans. They make fantastic salads!
Topics: Volunteers and Interns