Posted Sep 14, 2018
Since 2016, Toria Emas volunteers her time at Green City Market Lincoln Park every Wednesday morning. You can find Toria at our Info Booth helping shoppers navigate the market, distributing tokens to our Link customers, and greeting Chicago’s culinary talent at Chef Parking. There are many reasons why Toria loves Green City Market, including our friendly staff members, passionate farmers, and fresh produce that “invigorates her senses”. She particularly loves connecting with the different generations of market shoppers and supporters who share the same passion for sustainable food and supporting local businesses.
Most of all, Toria is an avid supporter Green City Market's mission of sustainability, “I love the way Green City Market farmers treat the land. There is a sense of security knowing my farmers and the requirement of third-party certifications for sustainable farm practices,” she notes.
The edible education portion of Green City Market’s organization speaks to Toria, “I love seeing children getting excited about trying new foods at Club Sprouts. I love seeing the next generation get inspired to improve our local food system. I wish there were more food and agriculture education programs when I was in school.”
As a 40 year resident of Lincoln Park, she first became involved with Green City Market when she met Green City Market’s founder, Abby Mandel at Les Dames D’Escoffier. Toria thought of Abby as her mentor. In 1998, Toria attended the first Green City Market in the alleyway next to the Chicago Theatre. She was also involved in the planning of the first Chef BBQ in 2000 and helped fundraise money to support the market in the early years.
With fall on the horizon, Toria is excited to see the season change at the market, “It’s the perfect photo op! Plus, all of my favorite produce is coming into season: apples, peppers, pumpkins and squash. I love the Honey Crisp apples from Mick Klug Farm, and the horseradish spread and butter from Brunkow Cheese.”
Interested in becoming a volunteer? Sign up here!