Volunteer of the Month: Karen Murray Kennedy

August 28, 2026

Foodwise relies on volunteers and interns to help with education programs and other activities that help fulfill our mission to grow thriving communities through the power and joy of local food. Learn more about internships here and volunteer opportunities here. 

Thank you to Karen Murray Kennedy, who has volunteered more than 100 hours over the last five months supporting our free Foodwise Kids field trips. On weekdays, Karen has been a friendly guide, leading kids through the farmers market and encouraging them to get to know local farmers and try peak-season fruits and vegetables for the first time.

“It’s been such a pleasure to have Karen volunteer with our Foodwise Kids program,” says Youth Education Manager Astrid Bonilla. “She is an incredible source of support and encouragement for our picky eaters, and she always goes out of her way to make sure every child feels included and welcomed… I am so grateful for Karen’s hard work, kindness, and ongoing dedication to the elementary-aged students who visit our farmers market.”

Meet Karen.

Where does your interest in food come from?

I have been working (and playing) in food service for over 45 years.

What do you do when you aren’t volunteering or interning for Foodwise?

I like to read, walk, travel, cook, and eat. I’ve been living in SF for 32 years. I raised my daughter here, am still raising my dog, and have been shopping at the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market the whole time. I love all the art and food scenes here.

Why are you choosing to volunteer or intern with us at this time?

I chose to volunteer because I believe giving our children access and knowledge about food is incredibly important. Child hunger is the stupidest thing to me in such a rich environment.

What has been most rewarding about your experience with Foodwise?

Interacting with the people, the staff, interns, other volunteers, vendors, and of course the kids.

What does Foodwise mean to you? 

Foodwise means supporting children and their nutrition. When you get a kid to admit they like something they were afraid to try, or when they say, “I’m going to ask my mom if I can help in the kitchen,” or to buy this thing I just tried because it’s good.

Any favorite farmers market foods or home meal prep tips you want to share? 

It’s so rewarding on your palate to eat seasonally. Talk to your farmers or vendors, they are the backbone of our food system.

Topics: Volunteers and Interns