Happy AmeriCorps Week 2022! We can’t thank our tremendously dedicated AmeriCorps members enough. They are absolutely vital to building capacity for our programs and services — and in growing the local food system for our region!
This week we will be spotlighting each of our active AmeriCorps members. Meet Leonely Paulino, our Farm Direct Food Security AmeriCorps VISTA Member.
What drew you to serving as an AmeriCorps member? I became an AmeriCorps member because I really wanted to serve the minority, immigrant, and low-income communities in my hometown of Providence. I also wanted to learn about all of the really amazing work that is happening here at Farm Fresh and in other nonprofit programs in RI. I wanted to become much more knowledgeable about existing resources so that I can better serve my family, friends, and community who may not find them easily accessible due to certain barriers like language or income.
What is your favorite thing to buy at the farmers market right now? I have been buying my weekly kombucha from Fully Rooted at the Farm Fresh Providence Farmers Market this winter, I really enjoy the Lion’s Mane flavor! I also have been loving kimchi from Chi Kitchen because it is delicious!
What television of book series are you into right now? I am currently rewatching the show Outlander! Season 6 recently premiered but I need a refresh first.
Do you have any pets? My family and I share a cute little dog named Leila; a friendly orange cat named Sherbert; a shy, anxious cat named Marina; and three very loud parakeets. Leila is very obedient but is skilled in giving high-fives to me only, haha!
What is your favorite RI tradition? My favorite RI tradition is pizza strips, but especially pizza chips!! When I describe this to any of my college friends they are disgusted 🙁 But my dad always gifts them to me and I inhale them immediately!
What’s your favorite season here in RI, and why? My favorite season is the summer because I LOVE the sunshine and will simply sit outside for hours enjoying it. My family also enjoys taking long walks together around our neighborhood in the summertime. I love going on scenic bike rides, sitting on our patio, and taking day trips to the beach. The days are also so much longer and I feel like I can do so many things!
Thank you Leonely, we couldn’t do it without you!
Farm Fresh Rhode Island is an AmeriCorps grantee and receives funds as part of their State and National program, and to operate our VISTA program.
