We love working with schools, community centers, libraries and other organizations.
Roots to Rise NYC
Transforming Communities Through Nutrition Education + Exploration
At Roots to Rise, we take a family-centered approach to nutrition, showing families how the food they eat shapes cognitive development, emotional well-being, and academic performance.
Through interactive cooking demos and hands-on workshops for parents, children, and teens, we equip families with practical skills to make informed food choices within their means, explore accessible foods in their communities, and discover creative, nutritious meals.
Together, we build lasting, healthy relationships with food that reach far beyond the dinner table, transforming communities through nutrition education and exploration.
Our Mission
Roots to Rise transforms nutrition education for underserved communities by bridging the gap between food access and food empowerment. Through culturally relevant cooking education, rescued food repurposing, and immersive learning experiences, we’re building a future where every child can understand, access, and enjoy nourishing food—without barriers. We believe that true food security begins with education, empowerment, and community connection.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every family and school serves as a hub of healthy living, where children and adults alike feel empowered to make nutritious choices. Through our engaging programs and hands-on experiences, we build strong, resilient communities that value health, creativity, and environmental sustainability.
Our Programs
PowerHouse 4-Part Series for Parents
Building Confident, Informed Caregivers
Nutrition for Kids Cooking Workshops
Fostering Independence and Confidence
Family Cooking Workshops
Strengthening Bonds Through Shared Learning
Rescue & Repurpose Food Initiative
Environmental Stewardship Through Action
After-School Nutrition Support
Ensuring No Child Goes Hungry
Our Team
This focused leadership team brings together education, program development, and community engagement expertise, united by our shared passion for transforming children’s lives.
Our streamlined governance ensures direct accountability while maintaining the specialized knowledge needed to bridge food access and empowerment through science-backed, hands-on family experiences.
Julia Chan
Founder & Executive Director
Elaine Pouliot
Outreach Director & Community Connector
Carolina Neira
Family Engagement Chair
Emily Truong
Treasurer
Keiva Ditchfield-Agboh
Secretary
SUPPORT OUR MISSION
We’re just getting started, and we can’t do this alone. Whether you give, volunteer, or share our mission with others, your support helps bring nutrition education to more families. Every bit makes a difference.
Donate Now
If our mission speaks to you, your gift brings nutrition education to more families. Every dollar makes a difference.
Become a Volunteer
There’s plenty of work ahead, and a place for you on our team. Ready to give back? Let’s do it together!