Ron Finley

Ron Finley is not one to idly observe problems taking root. Raised in the food desert of South Los Angeles, Finley intimately understands the struggle for fresh produce, recalling journeys of 45 minutes just for a single tomato. In 2010, he resolved to tackle this issue, right outside his doorstep. Finley embarked on a mission to transform the neglected curbside dirt strip adjacent to his home into a vibrant vegetable garden, igniting a quiet yet profound revolution.

Driven by a desire for wholesome, untainted produce, Finley's initiative was both ingenious and defiant. However, his actions soon clashed with municipal regulations when the City of Los Angeles cited him for gardening without a permit on the public "parkways." Undeterred, Finley mobilized support, rallying fellow activists and launching a petition to challenge the status quo. His spirited resistance paid off as the city relented, granting him the right to cultivate his urban oasis.

Today, Finley's dreams have blossomed into a flourishing garden teeming with pumpkins, peppers, sunflowers, kale, and corn. Yet, beyond his role as a guerrilla gardener, Finley embodies the essence of community leadership. Committed to reshaping South Los Angeles into a verdant food forest, he strives to make his actions both educational and inspirational, providing access to nutritious options for future generations. With unwavering determination, Finley endeavors to sweep away the specter of food insecurity, not just from his street or neighborhood, but from the entire city of Los Angeles and beyond.