Volunteer Spotlight: John and Karen
JOHN AND KAREN MARTELLARO started volunteering in August 2023, giving more than 300 hours together! Most weeks, they volunteer for two or three shifts! We are incredibly grateful for their commitment to Pete's Garden and how much fun and knowledge they add to our volunteer community while packing meals.
What inspires you to volunteer at PG?
(John) During the 1990s I was food editor and restaurant critic for the Kansas City Star. I was actually paid a salary to eat at some of the finest restaurants in town, with the paper picking up the tab. I think that makes me the poster boy for nutritional privilege, so I embrace this opportunity to give back.
(Karen) Knowing that I am providing meals for families in my community. As a young adult, I often found myself sacrificing so my young child could eat. I know that many mothers make those kinds of sacrifices so I want to do what I can to help.
What’s your least favorite food item to pack?
(John) Partially thawed frozen green beans. Frostbite awaits!
(Karen) Smoked sliced pork and mashed potatoes in a tie. They both leave me with a big mess to clean up afterward.
What is your favorite “kitchen sink” meal (a meal to use some of your fridge or pantry items to help prevent food waste)?
Combining compatible leftovers with canned broth to make "surprise soups."
Fun fact that people probably don’t know about you!
(John) I was a Dead Head, attended more than 50 Grateful Dead concerts.
How else do you help the mission of Pete's Garden?
We talk about PG to our friends and people we meet at every opportunity. We also shop carefully so we don't throw very much food away.
Do you have any hobbies or travel?
(Karen) I enjoy herb and flower gardening, and composting.
