Interviewed by Ellie S. (11th Grade) Content from Karen C.
Lets hear from Karen Cancilla, who serve as the Garden Manager of The Root 66 Garden.
Karen: Our garden is a nonprofit, community-driven space located in Rancho Cucamonga, California, spanning over 14 acres of cultivated growing space, making it the largest community garden of its kind in the country. We focus on sustainability, education, and community connection. I help oversee daily operations, programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives.
What is the official name of the club, and what is your primary mission?
Karen: The official name is The Root 66 Garden. Our primary mission is to create a sustainable, hands-on learning environment where people of all ages can connect with nature, grow their own food, and build a stronger, healthier community.
How many members do you have, and what is the typical “vibe” of a meeting?
Karen: We currently support about 50 plot members, 40 FoodShare families, and around 80 active volunteers, along with large corporate volunteer groups that join us 3 to 4 times a year.
The vibe is welcoming, relaxed, and hands-on. Whether it’s a workshop, volunteer day, or community event, people are learning, working together, and enjoying being outdoors.
What specific branches of science do you focus on?
Karen: We primarily focus on environmental science, plant biology, soil science, and sustainability practices. Through our programs, participants learn about ecosystems, composting, water conservation, and the role of pollinators in food production.
What is the most ambitious project the club has tackled this year?
Karen: Our most ambitious project has been growing and expanding our FoodShare program, focusing on producing crops specifically for the community. This effort brings together volunteers, members, and families to grow fresh food that directly supports local food access, while also providing hands-on education in sustainable agriculture.
What has been the club’s proudest moment in the last 12 months?
Karen: One of our proudest moments was being awarded a $10,000 grant from Sprouts Farmers Market to support our Roots to Wellness Program. This funding allows us to provide specialized agricultural education workshops for individuals with special needs, creating inclusive, hands-on learning experiences in the garden.
How does the club contribute to the local or the border community?
Karen: We provide access to fresh food, hands-on education, and a safe, welcoming space for people to gather and learn. Through partnerships and programs like FoodShare, we support food access, sustainability education, and community wellness.
What are the long-term goals for the club?
Karen: Our long-term goals include expanding educational programs, increasing food production, growing our membership, and continuing to build a self-sustaining model that can serve as a blueprint for other community gardens.
Anything else you would like to say to ecolyst.org readers?
Karen: We believe that small, local actions can create meaningful change. Whether it’s planting a seed, learning something new, or connecting with your community, everyone has a role to play in building a more sustainable future.
Learn more at: theroot66garden.org about The Root 66 Garden
Check out the Ins @theroot66garden
