Val Hansel and her son Parker have been involved in ExtraFood’s Share the Bounty program for the past 3 years. Val is a Share the Bounty Glean Lead who leads Parker and other youth in gleaning excess fruit from local residences. Together this year they have already completed 10 gleans!
Parker’s interest in gleaning grew and led him to launch the Tam Harvest Club at Tamalpais High School, connecting students with residents who need help harvesting their fruit trees. Val and Parker also volunteer with ExtraFood at the Sunday Marin Farmers Market.
One of their favorite parts of volunteering is hearing from donors who are thrilled to see their extra fruit feeding the community instead of going to waste. “It’s always exciting to discover a new harvest or leave a flyer and hear back from someone eager to contribute,” Val says.
Whether harvesting fruit or gathering produce at local farmers markets, Val and Parker embody the spirit of ExtraFood. Their dedication shows how one family’s commitment can inspire a broader community to reduce waste and feed neighbors in need.
Thank you Val and Parker!
