Inspired by tending a garden in her Bronx backyard, Karen Washington co-founded the Black Urban Growers network to provide a sense of community and support for urban and rural farmers of African descent. In 2012 Ebony magazine voted her one of their 100 most influential African Americans in the country, and in 2014 she was awarded with the James Beard Leadership Award. She has worked tirelessly to transform vacant New York City lots into community gardens and is founder of Rise and Root Farm.
Poster Artist Nicole Medina: “I’m a graphic designer and illustrator born in the Bronx but currently residing in Putnam Valley. Originally, I planned to major in Exercise Science, but I ended up switching and received my Associates Degree in General Studies. I plan on pursuing a career in the arts.”
Words of Inspiration
“To grow your own food gives you a sort of power and it gives people dignity. You know exactly what you’re eating because you grew it. It’s good, it’s nourishing and you did this for yourself, your family and your community.” —Karen Washington
