Designation Team Members

Rachel’s career is driven by her unwavering belief that a better world is possible and within reach. Born outside of Philadelphia, her journey began at 19 after being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, when she co-founded MarchOnHarrisburg, a nonprofit advancing anti-corruption…

Ryan’s journey with Food Forward began years ago as a volunteer harvesting persimmon trees. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she’s always been passionate about community engagement and service. Her early exposure to social inequality inspired her interest in public…

Richard, a committed advocate for hunger relief, volunteered for Food Forward several years ago as part of the Farmers Market Recovery Program. He now focuses on advancing Food Forward in the hunger relief space. With over 15 years of experience…

Xena grew up in the Northeast before moving to Southern California for its open spaces and warmer climate. She holds an MS in Nutrition from Boston University and a BA in Environmental Science from Barnard College. With almost two decades experience in nonprofit fundraising and program operations, Xena is excited to have found an organization that combines both of her passions—conservation and nutrition. She enjoys hiking, baking vegan desserts, and traveling light. She's clinging to the hope that one day her daughter will discover the joys of backpacking... or at least tolerate it without complaining.

Herb’s Family comes from El Salvador, a small country in Central America. Herb graduated from Bell Gardens High School, class of 2002, and attended college at East Los Angeles college, but with three daughters by the age of 23, he…

Martha was born and raised in Northeast Los Angeles, in the small town of El Sereno. As a middle child, she always marched to the beat of her own drum. She was determined not to be a product of her…

Amberlee Norris grew up in Oregon, spending most of her time outdoors riding horses and exploring nature. Before relocating to Southern California, she lived in Denver where she embraced the outdoor culture and learned to love snowboarding, camping, hiking and backpacking. With…

I was born in Guadalajara, Mexico. My biggest wish was to come to the United States and I feel very blessed to be living here in CA where I met my wife and we had a family. I have always…

Janelle has called many places home throughout her life (Wisconsin, Nebraska, Florida, and more) but is thrilled to make roots in Los Angeles with Food Forward. Since completing her undergraduate degree in Molecular Environmental Biology in 2019, she has always…