The Happy Kitchen, and SFC as a whole, is truly grateful to have the support of so many wonderful volunteers. Volunteer help staff the farmers’ markets, assist during cooking classes, work in the garden, lead SFC activities at health fairs, and so much more.

One of our recent rock star volunteers is Kathy Bentz. Kathy started volunteering regularly with The Happy Kitchen last fall, and she’s been a tremendous asset to our team. She helps during classes, and provides support for day-to-day operations, like kitchen inventory and shopping for ingredients. She also donates both her time and her insight to larger-scale projects, like establishing workable systems for kitchen management. Here, Kathy tells us more about her experience with The Happy Kitchen and SFC.

How did you first hear about SFC?

• I learned about SFC through the Farm to Work program that was offered at my worksite. The convenience of having great fresh healthy produce brought to the office was great. Once I got on the mailing list, I read more about the other programs that SFC offered and was excited about what they offer to the Austin community.

What made you want to get involved?

• After retiring last summer I had time to begin to volunteer with non-profit organizations. I love the mission of SFC and really wanted to learn more about the organization and to see how I could contribute my time.

How have you spent your time as a volunteer?

• I’ve had the opportunity to spend most of my volunteer time with The Happy Kitchen. The staff is a great and the work has helped me rediscover my love of cooking. I’ve been able to help this very busy dedicated group with shopping, inventory, prepping for classes/demonstrations/events, assisting with team building, preparing recipes to be photographed, data entry and assisting during classes.

Any favorite volunteer moments?

• I love the variety of work, getting to know the staff and meeting the other volunteers. There is always an opportunity to learn from the staff, problem solve and enjoy a sense of humor in the process of getting the job done. One night there was an “I Love Lucy” type moment when the suds took over all three compartments of the sink and another time when I was asked to be a “fruit cobbler” judge!

Any advice for others thinking about getting involved?

• I’d say jump in on something you think you might enjoy and be open to finding new opportunities once you start. Helping a great mission driven organization like SFC is very enjoyable and rewarding.

Thanks to Kathy, and all of our volunteers, for everything you do! For more information about SFC’s Volunteer Program and how you can get involved, visit our website at http://sustainablefoodcenter.org/get-involved/volunteer.