Catherine Kendig is a member of the Food Moxie Board.

You not only give of your time for Food Moxie, you are also a donor. What inspired you to get involved with and give to Food Moxie?

When I moved to the Point Breeze neighborhood of Philadelphia five years ago, I was stunned at the deep poverty within the community. I previously worked at an urban farm in the Shaw neighborhood of Northwest Washington when I was a graduate student studying environmental policy, but did not get to see the full impact of the work that I was doing. Here, I found myself in another food desert with vacant lots and a deficit of green space. During this time I serendipitously met Food Moxie Executive Director Jill Fink. After hearing about the work that the organization was doing through the use of multi-faceted, sustainable solutions, I immediately saw an opportunity to pick up where I left off with a uniquely impactful food justice organization. As a young professional, I was invited to help spread awareness to other young professionals through the Hoedown, Food Moxie’s summer solstice fundraiser. I continued to volunteer and give over the years and now I have the honor of being on the Food Moxie Board. 

What expertise do you bring to Food Moxie? 

I have a background in ecology and environmental policy. I am an energy advisor for Tesla, helping homeowners transition to a sustainable energy lifestyle. I am dedicated to using my scientific background and business-development skills to bring more donations for Food Moxie’s work through calling on my network within the region as a member of Food Moxie’s Development Committee. 

What’s your experience with urban agriculture?

My boyfriend and I have a raised bed in the Ralph Brooks Community Garden at 20th and Tasker streets in Point Breeze. Working with the community to build the garden made us feel more connected to our neighborhood and also created an activity that the two of us share throughout the year. 

What’s your go-to meal?

My homemade red lentil stew. It has been a source of comfort for me over the years. I had lost my job and was living on my own. I had to find a way to eat nutritiously on a small budget. It made me more aware of the challenges some of our neighbors face. It is delicious, cheap, easy, versatile, and healthy!