About Us
At We Grow NYC Inc., our mission is to spread and support sustainable, community-building urban growing practices that empower New York City residents with knowledge, access, and opportunity. We advance sustainable agriculture in urban environments by helping city dwellers build meaningful connections to every stage of the growing process, from education and cultivation to long-term economic participation.
Central to our work is a commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and equity. We Grow NYC develops community-based learning hubs where young people, families, and aspiring growers come together to learn, collaborate, and grow. Through high-quality, hands-on workshops, we address the unique challenges of urban cultivation while meeting people where they are; within neighborhoods, community spaces, and legal dispensaries across NYC.
As part of our long-term vision, We Grow NYC is building a workforce development pathway that prepares participants for careers within the legal cannabis and urban agriculture sectors. By partnering with community leaders, educators, industry professionals, and licensed dispensaries, we provide practical education, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities that lead to economic mobility and self-sufficiency.
Our work is grounded in the belief that access to education should never be a barrier. We are committed to offering free or affordable programming whenever possible, ensuring that all members of our community, regardless of income, space, or prior experience, have the tools and support needed to grow, thrive, and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable city.
Our Goals and Vision
Our vision is to cultivate a community that grows together, empowering New Yorkers to grow their own food, medicine, and plants. Home cultivation is uplifting, educational, and deeply rewarding, benefiting both individuals and those around them.
At We Grow NYC, we provide the tools, resources, and knowledge to help people grow confidently and sustainably, with a clear understanding of their rights and best practices.
Our ultimate goal is to open cooperative community growing spaces across all five boroughs—serving as hubs where families and neighbors learn, grow, and thrive together. Let’s work together to build a greener, stronger New York City.
Who We Are
We Grow NYC began with a simple yet powerful idea: to teach people how to grow their own.
What started during the COVID pandemic as a space for fathers to connect and share their struggles soon blossomed into a place of healing and growth. Gardening became a source of peace, purpose, and connection.
With the support of master gardeners within the group, founder Adam launched We Grow NYC as a nonprofit dedicated to empowering urban communities with the knowledge and tools to cultivate their own food, herbs, and medicine.
Today, we lead hands-on workshops throughout New York City, creating spaces where people can learn, grow, and connect. Our goal is to expand into schools, community gardens, and public venues across the five boroughs.
Eventually, we hope to inspire similar movements in cities across the country. We believe that growing your own is more than a skill, it’s a path to resilience, wellness, and self-determination.
Our Team
Adam Goldner
Executive Director
Adam is a father of three and an education leader. Born in NYC, Adam has devoted the past twenty years toward the betterment of opportunities for NYC public school students. As an educator, Adam believes in the power of change through learning and has taken that understanding into the charitable realm in founding We Grow NYC. Adam believes in the strength of education as a tool to enact social change and hopes to further advocate for social justice and reforms through the learning process.
Andra F. Roig Jr.
Project Director
Andra F. Roig, Jr. is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, passionately working to uplift communities and create meaningful change. A devoted husband and father of three, he is driven by his belief in community empowerment, creativity, and the transformative power of connection.
Willie Alvarez
Media Director
Willie Alvarez is a creative with over a decade of experience in education, programming, and innovative storytelling. Passionate about sustainability and growth, he dedicates himself to creating impactful projects that inspire change and build meaningful connections. Born and raised in the Bronx, Willie brings authenticity and a commitment to supporting diverse communities through his work.
Alex Roig
Treasurer/Website Design
As a lifelong gardener who has relished the experience of cultivating my own food in my backyard, I’ve amassed a wealth of knowledge that I’m eager to share with others. With the legalization of home-grown cannabis, I embraced the opportunity to learn how to grow it myself. This journey inspired us to create this platform, driven by a desire to impart our insights and enable others to discover the joy and wonder of growing their own plants.
Steven Thomas
Field Operations Manager
A dedicated leader and outdoorsman, Steven Thomas brings over 15 years of ironwork experience, blending precision and craftsmanship with hands-on problem-solving. An avid fisherman and family man, he is known for his strong work ethic, resourcefulness, and ability to bring people together. Whether managing operations, mentoring others, or volunteering, Steven’s passion for nature and community shines through in all he does.
EIN # 92-2659814
info@wegrownyc.org
1(347) 789-7434
1880 Coney Island Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11230
We Grow NYC
Adam@wegrownyc.org-CEO
Andra@wegrownyc.org- Project Manager
Willie@wegrownyc.org- Director
Alex@wegrownyc.org -Treasurer
Steve@wegrownyc.org- Field Operations