Meet our Staff
Michelle Reining, Executive Director
Michelle Reining brings over a decade of experience working on health and human rights issues in the Asia-Pacific region to the Vancouver Food Runners team. As a researcher and project manager with leading national and regional nonprofits (CARAM Asia, Asia-Pacific Resource and Research Centre for Women, and Health Equity Initiatives), her work primarily focused on access to health care for equity-seeking communities. During her three years as a steering committee member with Health Equity Initiatives, she played a key role in fundraising and strategic planning. Michelle is the co-chair of the Vancouver Food Policy Council and a steering committee member of the Vancouver Food Justice Coalition. She has an MSc in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, an MA in Anthropology from UVic, and a BA in Psychology from UBC.
Kelsey Barker, Program Manager
Volunteer & Community Engagement
Kelsey brings her years of experience in food business and food systems research to this position. She is passionate about sustainability and connecting with the wonderful volunteers that make VFR's mission possible. Kelsey holds a BA in Geography from UBC, a Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems & Security from KPU, and is currently working on completing her MA in Environmental Practice at Royal Roads University. Kelsey is the Garden Coordinator at her local community garden and enjoys championing the importance of access to green space and connection to growing your own food.
Adelyn Chan, Program Manager
Partnerships and Expansion planning
Adelyn is the Program Manager for partnerships and expansion at Vancouver Food Runners. She holds a BA in Sociology from the University of Victoria and brings years of experience in front-line work with those struggling with precarious housing situations, addiction, or their mental health. Her prior roles include case management, a shelter and outreach worker for youth, and in employee relations on the Downtown Eastside. She has seen first-hand how food can be an important connection between individuals and the resources in their communities. Adelyn is passionate about working with community partners to improve food security in Metro Vancouver.
Courtney Lau, Program Coordinator
Communications and Development
Courtney Lau recently graduated with a B.Sc. in Food, Nutrition, and Health, with a minor in Commerce, from the University of British Columbia (UBC) and was involved in research that examined student perceptions of just, equitable, and dignified food access during her time at UBC. Her connections to climate sustainability and food sovereignty continue to grow as a Program Coordinator with Vancouver Food Runners. Courtney has completed internships working with United Way British Columbia - Lower Mainland Region and the South Vancouver Neighborhood House Food Hub, gaining multiple perspectives within Vancouver's food system.