By 
Lara and Gar Truppelli are longtime Rainforest Action Network enthusiasts and supporters. We had an incredible time with them last March when they threw an epic 25th anniversary party for RAN at The Lake Chalet in Oakland, California. Lara and Gar hosted us with such grace: the food was fabulous, the vibe was unbeatable, and the gondola rides took that party over the top!
Recently, I asked Lara if she’d share some of her and Gar’s story with the RAN community. In her true fashion, Lara graciously obliged…
Donating to RAN
Gar and I first learned about RAN’s work through a bunch of cool people who were already supporters. In 1993, we became members by way of its annual fundraiser, REVEL. Our love for RAN has continued growing over the years, and when we opened the Beach Chalet in 1997 we were able to offer additional support by donating beer and gift certificates to its events and parties (which are always a blast and not to be missed).
We’re always looking for new ways to support RAN, and I’m even putting RAN in my will.
Why We Give To RAN
RAN is unique because its campaigns constantly engage in and generate action. The hard-hitting creativity and boldness of RAN’s campaigns are always impressive, especially because they never compromise RAN’s purpose and vision.
I’m always impressed by the people behind RAN, too. They’re strategic and smart, and their work is always cutting edge. Plus, RAN folks put off a great vibe. I’m really excited to see RAN’s newest executive director Rebecca Tarbotton at the helm.
About Lara & Gar Truppelli
Gar and I met working at a pizza parlor in San Luis Obispo, California and moved to San Francisco in the early 90’s to attend San Francisco State University. San Francisco has been our home ever since — and the home to our three children: Seaira (17), Canyon (12), and Ember (10). We love to be outdoors at the beach and in Truckee/Tahoe during any season — skiing, snowboarding, wake boarding, swimming, hiking, and trying new sports.
During Gar’s last semester at State, we conceived our first restaurant, the Beach Chalet Brewery & Restaurant, which opened at Ocean Beach in 1997. In 2004, we built and opened the Park Chalet Garden Restaurant in Golden Gate Park; and just last year, we opened the Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill on Lake Merritt in Oakland, where we threw a great party to kick off RAN’s 25th anniversary last March. Between the three restaurants, we have about 1,000 seats and over 400 employees! Gar is planning another bar/grill in Emeryville, California, slated to open in early 2011.
I also recently started a non-profit project called SAND @ OB — a project of Earth Island Institute — to advocate for the preservation of and long-term vision for San Francisco’s Ocean Beach.