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I Imagine taking what most Harlemites would see as a typical empty lot and transforming that lot into a garden of healthy resources that can continuously repeat production. Well, that is exactly what Tony Hillery, CEO and founder of Harlem Grown, does. Harlem Grown is a non-profit organization that engages youth in under- standing the art of urban farming. The organization gives students hands-on experience in learning the process of growth and sustainability, two key tools that can be used in life. Hillery, a former limousine company owner, began this journey by volunteering at one of Harlem’s local elementary schools, P.S. 175. He noticed the lack of nutritional cadence for the students and the neglect of resources reaching those in need. Hillery then noticed an abandoned community garden across from the school one day. He then raised money and secured volunteers to repair the garden. In time, the project was a success, and Harlem Grown went on to produce 14 more community gardens across the greater Harlem area. Since its 2011 debut, the organization has partnered with multiple public schools and has reached almost 10,000 students. Hillery had the first 400 students plant 400 seeds within the first year of the program’s existence. The initiative went on to compost 20,000 pounds of trash and produce 5,400 pounds of fruits and vegetables. The greatest feat in the eyes of Hillery is that he and the Harlem Grown organization get to watch young people eat healthier and learn patience and humility while doing agricultural work in the very neighborhoods in which they live. In 2024, he secured a seat on the Happy Roots board of directors. Happy Roots is also an organization that promotes health and wellness through Urban farming. Harlem Grown has been featured on Good Morning America and PBS..
