We were thrilled when Jenna Cameron, a vegetarian since she was just 12, contacted us to become an MFA volunteer! Whether she was tabling at college events, leafleting, or helping us around the Chicago office, Jenna proved she was an incredible and dedicated animal activist. We recently chatted with Jenna to ask about her experience volunteering with MFA.
What first inspired you to become a vegan?
I became a vegetarian when I was about 12 years old, along with my mom. I have been a huge animal lover for as long as I can remember. When I moved away to attend college, I started doing more research on issues like factory farming. As soon as I discovered the horrors of the dairy industry, I went vegan. I began hosting vegan dinner parties for my college friends, making vegan cupcakes on Valentine’s Day, and giving speeches and presentations on factory farming. I have been vegan now for about four years and can honestly say it’s the best decision I have ever made.
What are some of your favorite foods?
Since going vegan, I have really started to love cooking. Some of my favorite things to make are roasted vegetables with quinoa, kale chips, and sweet treats for my friends and family. But if I do go out to eat, I love vegan sushi. Avocado rolls, miso soup, and edamame are all I need in life!
Why did you choose to volunteer with MFA?
Mercy For Animals helps animals in so many different ways, through groundbreaking undercover investigations, leafleting across the nation at college campuses and festivals, marching in parades, vegan food events, tabling, and more. I chose to volunteer with MFA to be a better advocate for animals, learn more about the organization, and help a great cause.
What did you like most about volunteering with MFA?
I loved the variety of things I was able to accomplish as an MFA volunteer. I helped do research for important projects, stayed up-to-date on the animal welfare community, helped organize volunteers, tabled at colleges, and of course, leafleted! I also loved meeting so many other amazing activists, as well as the MFA staff and volunteers.
What is the key to your success as an activist?
It’s all about attitude. When doing an outreach event, putting a big ol’ smile on your face and being enthusiastic not only makes your day better, but makes other people more likely to respond! Also, stay informed. Learn as much as possible, so if someone does strike up a conversation, you will have plenty of talking points. And of course, eat lots of vegan food. Then you will know where to send people for dinner!
Can you offer any insight for others interested in becoming involved with animal rights activism?
The best way to get involved is to volunteer with a group like MFA. Sign up for events in your area, apply for an internship, help out at a leafleting event, or order some literature and set up an event of your own! Promote links or blogs you like on Facebook or Twitter and cook vegan food for your family (and take pictures). There are tons of ways to get involved and you will not only help a great cause, but grow as an individual.
Feeling inspired? Click here to learn more about volunteering with MFA!