Volunteer of the Month: Tory Putnam
January 2, 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.
The next volunteer orientation is on Wednesday, January 15, 2014. Learn more and RSVP.
Since summer of 2012, Tory Putnam has been one of our go-to photographers, taking portraits of farmers market vendors for the CUESA website and documenting fundraising events such as our annual Sunday Supper and seasonal Cocktails of the Farmers Market nights. “After discovering everything CUESA does—from the farmers market to educational programming to events—I wanted to find a way to get involved and support the organization’s mission,” says Tory.
CUESA has been grateful to have her on the scene. “Tory is always game for taking photos, professional, and fun to work with,” says Online Education Manager Brie Mazurek. “She has a great eye for food and people, and her love of the farmers market shows through in her photos.” Check out an album of her photos from last year’s Hecho en San Francisco event, and meet Tory.
CUESA: Where does your interest in food come from?
Tory: I’ve been interested in food since I was a kid. I’ve always loved trying out new dishes and experimenting in the kitchen. When I moved to the Bay Area from the Midwest in 2010, I was very excited to be able to go to a year-round outdoor farmers market and, of course, explore all of the amazing food in San Francisco.
CUESA: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for CUESA?
Tory: I work in marketing and social media at Project Frog and write and photograph stories for Serious Eats.
CUESA: What is your favorite part about volunteering with CUESA?
Tory: I love photographing events like Sunday Supper, where you see everyone involved in Bay Area food (farmers, artisans, chefs, etc.) all collaborate.
CUESA: Do you have an insider market tip or a favorite produce item at the market right now?
Tory: It’s hard to pick just one item, but I’m a huge goat cheese fan and love visiting Bodega & Yerba Santa Goat Cheese!
Topics: Volunteers and Interns