Rooted Youth Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on giving teens and young adults meaningful, hands-on experiences in agriculture. Through real-world learning opportunities, we help young people explore different areas of agriculture, build practical skills, and gain exposure to potential career paths. Our goal is to support the next generation in discovering how they can grow, contribute, and succeed in the agricultural industry.

Rooted Youth Inc. is a part of Stoney Acres Farm located at 620 Winter Breeze Ct in Cary.

Participants have the opportunity to grow their skills in horticulture, animal science and beekeeping. We are also looking for teens and young adults interested in social media marketing, photography and videography, grant research, fundraising and hands on farm work/building projects.

Participants are also welcome to volunteer during our open farm times on Sundays.

Rooted Youth is designed for teens and young adults who are looking to gain meaningful, hands-on experience and strengthen their resumes in areas such as agriculture, marketing, and project-based building work. Our goal is to work with these young adults over several years, supporting their growth, skill development, and long-term exploration of career paths.

This program is not intended for students who are solely seeking to complete basic school volunteer hour requirements.

Our Board of Directors is composed of a diverse group of teens and adults who bring a range of perspectives, experiences, and expertise.

President: Emily Tischer, co-owner of Stoney Acres Farm

Vice President/Secretary: Michele Commins, Pharmaceutical/Biotech Consultant

Teen Vice President: Jill Favale-Austin

Teen Secretary: Avery Arledge

Treasurer: Julie Hannan, Finance Administrator with My Guys Remodeling

Teen Treasurer: Allison Tischer

Community Outreach: Joe Crosby, Grounds Superintendent of North Carolina State Fairgrounds

Once a month on a Saturday, Rooted Youth participants will have the opportunity to attend an on-farm learning event. These sessions may include hands-on experiences working with animals, getting involved in soil and farm work, or learning directly from guest experts such as large animal veterinarians or sheep breeders.

We will also offer opportunities to visit other farms and agricultural organizations to broaden exposure to the industry. In addition, we aim to tailor select experiences based on the interests and requests of our members. All upcoming opportunities will be shared in advance via the Team Snap app.

Please fill out this Google Form

We will contact you shortly after we receive the form.

Yes! As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations are tax-deductible. We are currently taking donations via cash, check, Venmo @rooted-youth or through this Paypal link.

Our Board of Directors will thoughtfully evaluate how donated funds can be used most effectively to support and serve our participants. Funding decisions will be guided by the needs of our programs and opportunities that create the greatest impact for the youth we serve.

Please send an e mail to

info@rooted-youth.org with any questions!