In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we speak with Claire Groebner, Associate Director at Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center, about the intersection of food justice, environmental realities, and grassroots solutions. Based in National City, California, Claire brings over a decade of experience in food systems work, resource organizing, and community-led advocacy.

Claire shares her journey from volunteer to organizational leadership and how Olivewood Gardens has become a hub for health education, environmental stewardship, and systemic change. The conversation explores food apartheid and the structural forces that shape access to nourishment, the impact of environmental and policy decisions on food equity, and how gardens can act as catalysts for empowerment.

We also dive into the transformative model of Community-Centric Fundraising, which reframes charity into justice and reimagines what sustainable, relational, and values-aligned fundraising can look like.

Tune in to learn more about:

• The difference between food justice and food charity

• Claire's personal journey into food systems and advocacy

• The history and ongoing impact of food apartheid

• How Olivewood Gardens integrates education, policy, and collective action

• Community-Centric Fundraising as a tool for equity and accountability

• The role of community voice and leadership in program design

• Why systemic change begins with collective care

… And so much more!

Guest Resources & Links: 

• Visit Olivewood Gardens: olivewoodgardens.org
• Learn about Community-Centric Fundraising: communitycentricfundraising.org
• Follow Claire & Olivewood: @olivewoodgardens

Connect with Hannah: 

• Instagram: @hannahkeitel