Roots Rising

This event will support Roots Rising, an initiative created to empower youth and build community through food and farming. Their transformative work is carried out through three core programs:

• The Pittsfield Farmers Market is the first teen-run farmers market in the region, and is a year-round vital hub for food equity and a vibrant community gathering space.

• The Youth Crews hire teens to work on farms, in food pantries and at The Market. These teens are provided with the opportunities to engage in meaningful work and serve a larger social good.

• The future Farm and Education Center will nurture the next generation of food system changemakers.

These programs mirror the values Russell lived by: creativity, hard work, community building and the belief that food can be a powerful force for good.