Volunteer of the Month: Roger Hintson
March 17, 2016
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 for our next orientation on May 11 here.
Motivated by his interest to learn more about sustainable agriculture and cooking, as well as his desire to help his community, Roger Hintson has made a splash in most of CUESA’s programs. Roger started volunteering in September 2015 and has been active with CUESA’s Foodwise Kids programs, Market to Table cooking demos, the Food Shed, farm tours, and the Info Booth.
“Roger has a lust for life that makes it such a pleasure to be around him,” says Culinary Programs Manager Carrie Sullivan. “He is very curious and interested in learning everything he can. He is a full-time-plus volunteer, putting in so many hours with us. I call him a ‘Renaissance man’ because his interests and talents are so diverse like his volunteering interests, where he has helped CUESA in so many ways.” Meet Roger.
CUESA: Where does your interest in food come from?
Roger: My interest in food comes from two places: helping feed those in the community who are sick or on little income, and the desire to become healthy by reducing the many medications prescribed by the VA due to my military service. I also enjoy cooking and want to learn skills to help myself become a better cook. A few years ago, I cut out processed foods and started eating more fresh fruits and vegetables.
CUESA: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for CUESA?
Roger: I volunteer at other community organizations such as Project Open Hand, Curry Without Worry, Martin de Porres House of Hospitality, and Calstar Yoga. I do triathlons and recently finished my first Ironman in October. I am a member of the UC Berkeley fencing and archery clubs, and DJ for a happy hour in the City on Friday evenings.
CUESA: What is your favorite part about volunteering with CUESA?
Roger: Wow, so much! I enjoy working with the kids, helping to teach them about sustainable agriculture, and assisting them in learning to cook. I also enjoy volunteering in the kitchen with the cooking demos. These things have helped me become much more skilled cooking for myself, friends, and family. I have learned so much about the farmers market in the last six months; it’s hard to say just one or two things. Thanks to Tessa, Carrie, and all the staff and volunteers for being so awesome to work around!
CUESA: Do you have an insider market tip or a favorite produce item at the market right now?
Roger: Try the new honey in the market! Robert MacKimmie of City Bees harvests it from several neighborhoods in San Francisco. Each of the three to four different kinds he brings each week take on different flavors from the flowers in those areas. Mmmmm!
Topics: Volunteers and Interns