Nestled in the heart of Reno, Urban Roots has blossomed from its modest beginnings into a cornerstone of community enrichment, embodying the essence of growth and sustainability. Established originally from an idea to combine STEM education with gardening and taking roots in 2012 with a vision to reconnect individuals to the source of their food, this nonprofit has cultivated a space where education, agriculture, and community intertwine seamlessly.
And while you may have read about Urban Roots before, our focus keeps to this issue’s theme—that of investment. A nonprofit that invests in its community, especially when you invest in it.
From Seedling to Second Street
Urban Roots' journey began on 4th Street, where a small plot served as the initial space for its ambitious mission. Through unwavering dedication, a strong partnership with Renown Health, and community support for its programs, it has transformed into a thriving teaching farm, located on second street since 2017.
This expanded space, which is where the bees, butterflies, (and sometimes) pigs roam, offers a sanctuary for learners of all ages to engage with the land and their food sources. It’s complete with several hoop houses and chickens politely pecking their way through. This evolution reflects a long-term investment in the community, fostering a culture of sustainability and self-reliance.
“I am truly grateful for the incredible journey I’ve had with Urban Roots over the past decade. While the recent years have presented some of our toughest challenges, they have also brought about our most rewarding achievements," explains Jenny Angius, executive director of development and operations.
The recent addition of a teaching kitchen stands as a testament to Urban Roots' responsiveness to community needs. This facility not only enhances the learning experience but also serves as a hub for culinary education, demonstrating how to transform homegrown produce into nourishing meals. Such projects underscore the organization's dedication to equipping individuals with practical skills that promote health and well-being.
"Thanks to the invaluable feedback from our community and partners, we embarked on the exciting project of creating a teaching kitchen—and we did it! We were driven by our belief that seed-to-table education is vital for our community, and we were confident in our ability to deliver it effectively."
Cultivating Knowledge Across Generations
At the core of Urban Roots' philosophy is the belief that education is a lifelong endeavor. It’s how the team literally helped build the teaching kitchen, and how they stay resourceful in everything they do.
The organization offers a diverse array of programs designed to engage participants from young children to seasoned adults. These initiatives include hands-on workshops, summer camps, and after-school programs, all centered around the principles of sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
"Working at Urban Roots has been eye-opening—there’s so much about gardening we need to know. I grew up on a farm but never paid attention to the science behind it," says Zak Shellhammer, Urban Roots’ marketing coordinator. "Here, I’ve seen firsthand how everything is directly connected—from composting and seedlings to bees making honey. Watching people of all ages learn these skills reinforces how vital it is for them to grow and cook their own food. Even I’ve felt the impact, bringing healthier habits into my own life. If it’s influenced me, imagine the ripple effect on our community!"
A Vision for Holistic Education
Urban Roots is steadfast in its commitment to making seed-to-table education accessible to all. This approach ensures that the knowledge imparted extends beyond the farm's boundaries, reaching into homes and neighborhoods throughout the region.
From partnerships teaching gardening and nutrition to clients of the Northern Nevada
HOPES tiny home community, Hope Springs, to nutritional classes and produce efforts in partnership with food pantries in the area, to even outdoor excursions at the farm with both cardiology patients and their doctors, Urban Roots continues to drive programming that extends the power of the garden to myriad northern Nevadans.
"I am incredibly proud of our team and their collective vision for the future of Urban Roots. Our goal is to further integrate holistic education into our programs, ensuring our seed-to-table education becomes even more accessible within our community," says Sydney Roberts, executive director of programs and staff. "We are committed to expanding off-site programming and forging partnerships that uplift and empower our neighbors."
The Power of Collective Investment
Urban Roots' success is a reflection of the community's collective investment—an investment that transcends financial contributions. It's about fostering a dynamic environment where knowledge, resources, and support are shared freely, creating a ripple effect that benefits all. The organization's reliance on donations, sponsorships, and grants highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in sustaining and expanding its impactful programs.
As Urban Roots continues to flourish, it serves as a reminder that investing in our community yields bountiful returns. These returns sometimes look like a 4-year-old learning where tomatoes come from; watching someone hesitantly start to garden, but by day’s end enjoy the dirt gracing their fingernails; or even reminding people to get outside and try something new.
By supporting initiatives that educate and empower, we sow the seeds for a healthier, more resilient future. Together, we can cultivate a landscape where everyone has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.
Throughout the year, Urban Roots holds various events and fundraisers perfect for growing andensuring their programs remain sustainable for generations to come.
"We were driven by our belief that seed-to-table education is vital for our community."
"Our goal is to further integrate holistic education into our programs."