ALISHA ROBERTS
Organic Enthusiast
Community Builder
About Me
Hello. I'm Alisha, a passionate, adept anthropologist with a zeal for food and the Indianapolis community. My early work included consumption based study; understanding the culture of edibility and labeling. This developed into an interest of local food and non-domesticated foods that one may forage or discover in the space around them.
As I spend more time in the city of Indianapolis, I peel back more and more layers of artistry, joy, community, as well as homelessness, hunger, and grief. I have grown to love this city as I seek my fit to improve the beauty I see around me.
I am currently extending my work experience into domesticated food and farming in my work with Hoosier Organic Marketing Education (HOME), the Hemp Chapter of the Indiana Farmers Union (INFU), and Near North Farmers Market. My goal is to work with the growth and distribution of responsibly and thoughtfully grown foods, such as organics.
I have strong skills in customer relations, knowledge of the food industry from several viewpoints, and experience with data analysis and entry. I am eFoodHandler certified and experienced with SAVI and Salesforce.
Relevant Work Experience
July 2018 - Today
Westminster Neighborhood Services
Volunteer Coordinator
Westminster Neighborhood Services provides hunger relief through a pantry and soup kitchen. They also house a high school equivalency program and an after school and summer program. As the Volunteer Coordinator, I train and onboard new volunteers as well as manage recognition programs for donors and volunteers.
June 2018 - Today
Near North Farmer's Market
Market Manager
This market is new to the scene, providing fresh produce and quality morning treats in a previously under-served neighborhood. In my position as Market Manager, I bring in new vendors and navigate the growth process of a market in its inaugural years.
June 2017 - Today
Indiana Farmers Union - Hemp Initiative
Vice President
This chapter of the Indiana Farmers Union is focused on providing education and supporting legislation for production of industrial hemp in Indiana. The primary goal is to work with farmers interested in growing hemp for a successful transition into a growing industry.
March 2017 - Today
Hoosier Organic Marketing Education
Intern
Known by the acronym HOME, this educational organization provides information concerning organic food, farming, gardening, and connecting farmers to consumers. HOME makes information about organic agriculture available to all interested members of the public. As an intern, I provide support on all levels, from acting as a runner for the president of the organization to running informational booths at conferences.
July 2017 - July 2018
AmeriCorps VISTA/Second Helpings
I completed several objectives in my service year with AmeriCorps, from analyzing historical data in Salesforce for the agency’s food donations to establishing best practices in measuring outcomes with partnered hunger relief agencies. I also worked with the agency relations and food rescue staff to improve communication with partnered agencies through survey.
September 2015 - February 2016
Owen Valley Winery
As a wine steward, not only did I serve wine to customers, I presented in-depth knowledge of every product, guiding customers through a memorable tasting experience. As the sole operator of a satellite shop, I assisted in the creation of a 1920’s style event, Speakeasy Night, including development of era-specific wine cocktails. I also administered a cost/benefit analysis for the food used in this event. I proudly gathered a following in the community as a hostess for the satellite shop in the duration of my employment.
May 2014 - February 2016
Georgetown Market
In my first job working with organic foods, I educated customers about healthy, organic eating, advised customers on dietary issues, and created tailored grocery lists for those with restrictions. My specialties were the benefits of local honey, tea for supplemental health benefits, and eating organic, less processed food for overall health.
For detailed information and complete work experience, please view my full resume.
Education
Graduated December 2015
IUPUI
In my time at IUPUI, I participated in the Anthropology Club, earned a place on the dean's list every semester, and maintained membership with Lambda Alpha Honors Society. My study focused on non-domesticated food and cultural understanding of edibility.
Certifications & Activities
Contact Me
2013 Glendora Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46214
Tel: 317-697-6077
