Love Thy Community II: Harlem Grown

Since its inception, Harlem Grown has partnered with seven local schools, impacting nearly 12,000 youth annually and growing over 5,000 pounds of produce each year. We spoke with founder Tony Hillery and his staff about their work, the importance of community and giving back, and addressing disparities in minority communities.

Tony started Harlem Grown in 2011 after noticing the lack of access to nutritional resources and education while he was volunteering at a local elementary school. With the help of 400 students, Tony cleared an abandoned garden across from the school. Inspired by a student named Neveah who urged him to “plant something,” Harlem Grown was born to educate children on healthy eating habits and provide access to fresh, nutritious foods.

Harlem Grown plants fruits and vegetables, but they grow healthy children, build sustainable communities, and encourage staff to be changemakers. Tony’s growing team finds purpose and fulfillment in their daily work.

To get involved, visit www.harlemgrown.org.

Tony Hillery founded Harlem Grown in 2011 while volunteering at a local school, where he noticed insufficient resources and poor nutritional support. Inspired by an abandoned garden across the street and a student named Neveah’s request to "plant something," Tony began Harlem Grown’s first growing season with 400 students. From that moment Harlem Grown was born, educating children on healthy eating habits and providing access to fresh, nutritious foods.

Harlem Grown’s greatest impact goes beyond planting fruits and vegetables; we grow healthy children, thriving communities, and an exceptional staff. Over the past thirteen years, we have partnered with seven local schools, impacting nearly 12,000 youth annually. Now, we cultivate over 5,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables each year, extending our influence far beyond our initial roots.

Harlem Grown's founding farm, located just feet away from the school that inspired them, offers popular community resources like free healthy food and programs.

"I joined Harlem Grown over 12 years ago as a daily volunteer, inspired by Nevaeh's enthusiasm. Watching my child thrive made me thrive too. Harlem Grown taught me urban farming, hydroponics, and youth development. Now, as the Agriculture Director, I can pass this knowledge on." - Ms. Assanah: Agriculture Director, 12 years (LEFT)

"Harlem Grown is my foundation. I began going as a child to plant and have fun, but it transformed my learning and provided a supportive community. Tony's guidance and the memories he helped create have shaped who I am today." - Nevaeh (RIGHT)

"As a very quiet child, Harlem Grown helped me find my voice and see my potential. The empowerment and trust from Harlem Grown taught me to believe in myself. Now, I embody their core belief that low-income children deserve the opportunity and tools to thrive." - Melani Estevez, Institutional Giving Manager, 2 years (LEFT)

"Growing up, healthy eating wasn't accessible or taught in my community. This predisposed me to health issues affecting my family and the broader Black community, from cancer to diabetes. As an adult, I adopted better eating and exercise habits, inspiring my family to do the same. This is an example of how Harlem Grown is more than a job; it's an opportunity to empower the next generation to be change makers in their families and community." - Melissa McLeod, Institutional Giving Director, 2 years (RIGHT)

Paul Hewett: Farmer, 1 year

Harlem Grown has transformed my life, allowing me to give back to my community and reconnect with my responsibilities. As a farmer, I take most pride in maintaining the school gardens, ensuring they thrive as vibrant educational spaces for our children. I also enjoy stocking our free library with quality books and managing the weekly farm stands. Watching my community grow helps me grow.

"I take pride in being a hydroponic farmer at Harlem Grown, where I've been continuously learning for the past two years. Working closely with Harlem youth and families not only allows me to make a difference in the community but also inspires me to be the best version of myself for my own family. My passion for Harlem Grown is driven by cultivating an environment where everyone can grow. Together, we're not just cultivating crops; we're cultivating Harlem! "Who grows Harlem? We grow Harlem!” - Dave Anevil, Farmer, 2 years (LEFT)

"I am known as the Mushroom Man at Harlem Grown. Over the past six years, Harlem Grown has truly transformed my life. I feel fortunate to do what I love every day — serving my community, inspiring its youth, and embracing nature. What's even more rewarding is sharing this connection with my 5-year-old son, teaching him about healthy foods and agriculture." - David Nune, Farmer, 6 years (RIGHT)

Harlem Grown's Mobile Teaching Kitchen, the first of its kind in New York City, features a roll-out island for cooking demonstrations and serves as an interactive staple at local outdoor events

"Living and working in Harlem has instilled a profound sense of pride, especially as I witness the impact of Harlem Grown in my community. It's rewarding to hear parents requesting recipes because their children loved cooking with me. I not only encourage children to embrace healthy eating but also empower them to motivate their parents. At Harlem Grown, I find myself growing as I continually expand my creativity to engage our community in healthy eating!" - Jamie Rhoden, Mobile Teaching Kitchen Operator and Educator, 2 years