Our Mission

The National Association of Community Gardens exists to support, promote, and advocate for community gardening throughout the United States. We believe that community gardens are vital spaces that bring people together, promote food security, enhance environmental sustainability, and build stronger neighborhoods.

Our mission is threefold:

  • Support: Provide resources, training, and funding to help communities establish and maintain thriving gardens.
  • Connect: Build a nationwide network of gardeners, educators, and advocates who share knowledge and best practices.
  • Advocate: Champion policies that protect and expand community garden access for all Americans.

Since 1985, we have helped establish over 2,500 community gardens across all 50 states, directly impacting more than 125,000 active gardeners and their families.

Our History

1985 - Foundation

NACG was founded by a group of urban gardening advocates in Philadelphia who saw the need for a national organization to support the growing community garden movement.

1992 - First National Conference

We hosted our first National Community Garden Conference in Chicago, bringing together 200 garden leaders from 35 states.

2001 - Seed Grant Program Launch

Launched our signature Seed Grant Program, providing over $50 million in funding to date for new and expanding community gardens.

2010 - Youth Growing Leaders

Established our Youth Growing Leaders program, engaging over 25,000 young people in garden-based education.

2020 - Pandemic Response

Pivoted to support record demand for community gardens during COVID-19, helping establish 400 new gardens and providing emergency resources to food-insecure communities.

Our Leadership

Meet the dedicated team guiding NACG's mission to grow communities across America

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Dr. Maria Santos

Executive Director

Former urban agriculture professor with 20 years of experience in food systems policy.

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James Washington

Director of Programs

Lifelong community gardener and advocate for equitable food access in underserved communities.

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Sarah Chen

Director of Development

Nonprofit development specialist with expertise in foundation relations and major gifts.

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Michael Torres

Director of Communications

Award-winning journalist and storyteller passionate about environmental advocacy.

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Dr. Aisha Johnson

Research Director

Environmental scientist studying the impact of urban agriculture on community health outcomes.

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Robert Kim

Director of Member Services

Dedicated to supporting our network of over 2,500 member gardens nationwide.

Our Partners

We collaborate with leading organizations to advance community gardening nationwide

USDA

Federal Partner

Burpee Foundation

Funding Partner

American Horticultural Society

Education Partner

National League of Cities

Policy Partner

Join Our Growing Community

Become a member and gain access to resources, funding opportunities, and a network of passionate gardeners.