Pictured above: Volunteer Gleaner and GleanSLO driver, Chuck Asmus.
Chuck has contributed countless hours to GleanSLO, driving the truck for us, organizing equipment and gleans, arriving with a smile and great attitude for each and every glean. We are so grateful we have the opportunity to work with Chuck and are happy to share his story and highlight his contributions. We truly could not do what we do at GleanSLO without him.
GleanSLO: How did you find out about GleanSLO?
Chuck: My wife Betsy and I were looking for something to do together. We saw a flyer for a beach clean up for Avila Beach. Being at the beach helping to clean up in some small way, what could be better? At the end of the clean up we were helping pack up with the organizer. One of the couples, Marv and Pet Daniels, gave us information of another volunteer group, GleanSLO. Marv even offered to pick me up on the way if I wanted to join them. What could be easier? No experience needed. Marv and Pet are consummate recruiters and they seem to be part of every local organization!
GleanSLO: What do you enjoy about gleaning?
Chuck: Seeing other parts of the county and some of the larger properties is an adventure in itself. Several have great settings and nice views that are easy to fall in love with. At the end of each glean you get to look around, see what you have accomplished, shake hands, hug, pat on the back, with a bunch of selfless volunteers. They’re great people.
GleanSLO: Do you have a favorite gleaning story or memory to share?
Chuck: You ask for memories! I have many, too many to write. Maybe it’s because I’ve been gleaning a few days a week and so many stories! One thing that stands out is when the owner is out there with us and it’s an extra chance to meet more people, Mike and Carol, Doug and Debbie, Stephine and Frank, Holger, Gary, just to name a few.
GleanSLO: Thank you to Chuck for the countless hours he has contributed to our program. We cannot thank him enough, but we will keep on trying!