Jamie Samowitz and Jess Vecchia

Jamie Samowitz and Jess Vecchia are the cofounders and directors of Roots Rising, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower youth and build community through food and farming. Through their Farm Crews, they hire Pittsfield teens to work on farms, in food pantries, and in gardens. They teach invaluable lessons about collaboration, meaningful work, and joy in giving back. With their help, Downtown Pittsfield Farmers Market is being transformed into the first teen-run market in the region, a testament to their commitment to youth development and food access for all.