Urban Roots began in 2009, using gardening as a tool to teach STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and math), environmental stewardship and nutrition. In 2012, the group opened a teaching farm and outdoor learning center, turning a former motel into a farm with gardens, animals and programs for kids, families and teachers. In 2017, it moved to East Second Street. During the COVID-19 shutdowns, Urban Roots employed at-home garden kits and virtual learning. In 2021, they launched seed-to-table programs for all ages, from preschoolers to seniors. On Saturday, Nov. 2, the group will host a brunch to celebrate its 15th anniversary, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Urban Roots Teaching Farm, 1700 E. Second St. Tickets are $60 in advance or $75 at the door. Learn more at www.urgc.org. Jenny Angius is the executive director of operations and development and has been with the organization for 11 years; we chatted via email.
How has the organization evolved over the years. What have you learned?
Historically, our organization has primarily served children. However, in response to popular demand during the pandemic, in 2021, we expanded our programs to serve individuals of all ages. This growth includes our family nutrition workshops, “Dead Plant Society Gardening 101,” and the expansion of our school garden program, now called “Gardening for All.” Through this initiative, we now build gardens for fellow nonprofits, residents and businesses.
What are some programs you offer that people may not know about?
Our workshops, like the Little Chefs family cooking workshop series. We believe in the power of seed-to-table education. We are thrilled to finally have our teaching kitchen operations as we expand our offerings in the community, as educators continue to lead students of all ages in nutrition education workshops, and prepare healthy snacks and teach cooking skills that participants can use in their daily lives. Our parent/child cooking workshops nurture healthy eating habits by empowering children to enjoy nutrient-dense foods. Through hands-on activities, families explore the journey of food, from harvesting fresh, seasonal produce on our farm to cooking a delicious meal together. Each life stage has unique nutritional needs, so building healthy eating habits early is essential for lifelong wellbeing. A registered pediatric dietitian will be available to answer nutrition questions and provide tips on discussing healthy eating with kids. …
We believe anyone can garden, even in the unique conditions of the high desert. The Dead Plant Society offers seasonal workshops tailored to help grow a thriving garden, no matter your experience level. From February through November, we guide adult learners in essential skills like composting, transplanting and seed-saving, all adapted for the high-desert climate. You will learn how to work with native soil, manage water efficiently, and choose resilient plants that can handle Nevada’s sun and temperature swings. You will get your hands dirty and leave with the knowledge to make your high-desert garden flourish.
What’s happening at the anniversary brunch?
We will be celebrating this special milestone with both familiar faces and new friends, including staff, board members and supporters who have been part of our journey. We will have a delicious, family-style canapé brunch provided by the talented Humble Harvest series chefs—Chris Cowell, Kawai Garrido, Kevin Futamachi and Maya Rae—along with drinks crafted by El Sativo tequila and other local favorites. We’ll also have mocktails for everyone to enjoy.
Tell me about the chicken yoga that will be happening at the event.
We’re excited to offer chicken yoga as part of our Gratitude Hour in the Garden, hosted by Kelly Laplace from Yoga Pod Reno. This 30-minute, kid-friendly session lets you stretch and relax alongside our adorable farm chickens. You’ll start the session with gentle hugs from our feathery friends, then move through fun and lighthearted poses designed to leave you feeling both grounded and joyful. It’s a unique way to connect with nature while practicing mindfulness.