Adrian Casale is an AmeriCorps member serving with Food Literacy Center’s first cohort of Food Literacy Corps. They joined the Food Literacy Corps in September 2016 and will complete their term in July 2017. Adrian is responsible for teaching food literacy curriculum at 4 low-income elementary schools, facilitating library programs in the community, and coordinating Produce of the Month tastings in partnership with the Sacramento City Unified School District. 

Adrian holds a Bachelor’s degree in Literature, and is a former teacher of English as a Second Language. They came to AmeriCorps and the Food Literacy Center from a background in newspaper editing, and out of a desire to help their community, especially the children.

Why did you choose to do a year of AmeriCorps service? 

I knew of Food Literacy Center before I knew of AmeriCorps, and I wanted to be involved with the message and the mission of Food Literacy Center. I wanted to help children, and teaching them to love and appreciate their fruits and veggies is such an important cause.

Favorite moment in the classroom this year? 

When one of my second graders proudly introduced me to his mother, to show off that I was the reason he was willing to try his veggies. I almost cried for how happy that moment made me.

What’s the most interesting fruit or vegetable you’ve tried this year?

Pomelo. I didn’t even know what it was until it showed up for our produce of the day. And I love it! It’s bitter and sweet and citrus-y and absolutely wonderful.

What do you plan to do with the skills you’ve gained at Food Literacy Center this year (what’s next)?

Food Literacy Center has taught me that I want to be a teacher. And, hopefully, starting in the fall, I will be working in a classroom as I get my teaching credentials.