We are proud to share that Urban Tilth has been selected as a 2026 California Nonprofit of the Year by Senator Jesse Arreguín of the 7th District.
This honor recognizes more than one hundred nonprofit organizations across the state for their outstanding contributions to their communities. We are deeply grateful to be included among this year’s awardees and to have our work uplifted at the state level.
Founded in 2005, Urban Tilth is a community-based organization dedicated to building a healthier and more self-sufficient local food system. Through a network of school and community gardens and small urban farms, we grow and distribute thousands of pounds of fresh produce each year while training and employing local residents, especially youth, as skilled growers and leaders. Our work also includes hands-on education programs that connect people to food production, nutrition, and environmental stewardship, as well as watershed restoration projects that rehabilitate local landscapes and waterways.
At its core, our work is rooted in direct action. That looks like transforming vacant lots into thriving urban farms, inspiring youth, restoring land together with neighbors, and feeding community members in need to both strengthen ecological health and community resilience.
In reflecting on this recognition, Executive Director Doria Robinson shared:
“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to CalNonprofits and Senator Jesse Arreguín for seeing us, seeing our work, and valuing the change we make in the world. Our work is not just about job creation or the number of people hired. It is about the opportunities this work makes possible. It is about people finding their calling and passion, and being empowered to create positive change for the land and the communities they care deeply about. Receiving this award feels especially meaningful as it comes on the heels of our 20th anniversary. It gives us a moment to reflect on how far we have come and the community that has made this work possible. For us, doing this work is an honor. It is an honor to serve, to uplift, and to contribute to healing in our communities.”
This recognition comes at a meaningful moment for Urban Tilth as we celebrate two decades of community-rooted work. It is a reflection of the collective effort of our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters who continue to make this work possible.
We look forward to celebrating alongside fellow honorees at the California Nonprofits Day luncheon at the State Capitol on May 20.
Thank you to our entire community for growing with us.
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