Rochester Roots, Inc.

Rochester Roots, Inc. began in 1975 as the Politics of Food Program, the food and hunger task force of the Rochester Peace and Justice Education Center. In 1991, it became an independent, not-for-profit organization with a focus on sustainable food systems. In 2005, the name was formally changed to Rochester Roots to better reflect its urban roots, urban agriculture program, and focus on youth. The organization is committed to creating urban school and community garden-based educational programs for youth and adults, focusing on growing, preparing, and enjoying high-quality, safe, affordable, healthy food. They also advocate for community food security and promote environmental stewardship through sustainable agriculture practices. Their involvement with local farmers led to the establishment and growth of the now independent Genesee Valley Organic Community Supported Agriculture farm project (the GVOCSA). In 2020, the copyright notice was updated to Rochester Roots, Inc. 2020, indicating continued operation and updates to their mission and programs, which now include 26 Sustainability Labs and Youth Wellbeing Practicums, with a focus on Sustainability Education and Entrepreneurship for youth, working alongside businesses and university faculty to solve sustainability challenges. The organization's mission is to empower citizens and communities, starting with youth, to create agency for their own sustainable wellbeing. They offer programs like "Stand On My Own Two Feet Squared" for Pre-K to 6th grade students, introducing them to living systems sustainability and entrepreneurism, developing critical thinking, STEAM learning, and decision-making skills. They also host a Science Fair Judged Competition and promote SEE Entrepreneurs and New Products. The organization is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit. They have a long history of education, advocacy, and empowerment, evolving from earlier work in Rochester City schools and community gardening with families to their current