FeedTahoe Volunteer Highlight Linda Wysong

Volunteer Spotlight: Linda Wysong – Hiking, Baking & Making a Difference

Some people have a natural gift for giving back, and Linda Wysong is one of them! Whether she’s out exploring Tahoe, baking the perfect sourdough, or helping FeedTahoe fight food waste, Linda finds joy in every moment. Get to know this incredible volunteer and what inspires her to make a difference!

Meet Linda

Linda is an outdoor enthusiast who loves anything that gets her moving— hiking, backpacking, and spending time outside. She’s also a talented quilter and a passionate home cook (ask her about her legendary sourdough skills, perfected during the pandemic!).

When she’s not exploring nature or in the kitchen, she’s cheering on the San Francisco Giants or spending time with her five grandkids in the Bay Area.

Why FeedTahoe?

Linda has always believed in reducing food waste and ensuring that perfectly good food reaches those who need it most. FeedTahoes mission was a perfect fit for her values, and she loves how easy it is to get involved.

"Everyone is so gracious and thankful - those that are donating are happy to see the food find a good home and those that receive it are grateful and appreciative of the generosity of our community."

Favorite FeedTahoe Moments

Linda has countless memorable experiences while volunteering, but these stand out:

  • Seeing how grateful both donors and recipients are—everyone involved appreciates the impact.

  • Reconnecting with Chef Jon at Edgewood, only to realize she had known his parents years ago!

  • The warm smiles and kindness of the Coalition for the Homeless staff, who always make her day.

And the best part? "Every time I finish a food rescue, I find myself smiling!"

Advice for New Volunteers

Thinking about volunteering? Linda’s top tips:

  1. Do a "ride-along" first! Going with an experienced volunteer makes it easier to learn the process. (She’d even be happy to help!)

  2. Don’t overthink it—just help if you can! Even small efforts make a big difference.

The Impact of Volunteering

One of the things Linda loves most about FeedTahoe is the people. She’s met so many members of the community she might never have crossed paths with otherwise.

"I have strong feelings about food waste and how unnecessary it is. There are so many people facing food insecurity and Feed Tahoe makes so much sense. I'm just thrilled for the opportunity and privilege to help. I love the flexibility of the program. I help whenever I can, knowing there are other great volunteers helping when I can't."

Favorite Food & Fun Facts

  • About Linda: I grew up in a small farming community in Northern California. In 1976, after my last year of college, some friends I came to Tahoe for the summer. And lucky me, I've been here ever since. I raised my kids here, taught for many years for LTUSD, found the most amazing friends to adventure with, and can't imagine a more beautiful life than the one I've had here
    Food everyone should try?
    Too many to choose!

  • Life motto? "Help if you can."

  • What makes her smile? Rescuing food and seeing the impact firsthand.

Want to Volunteer?

Linda’s dedication, warmth, and enthusiasm make her an incredible part of the FeedTahoe team. The Tahoe community is lucky to have her, and we’re so grateful for everything she does!

Want to make an impact like Linda? Sign up to volunteer today! DM us or visit feedtahoe.org to learn more.

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