HOW ROUTE 1 IS EMPOWERING YOUTH THROUGH AGRICULTURE HARVESTING HOPE AND HEALTH
When students from marginalized communities face challenges in school, options are limited and can lead kids to slippery slopes and down dangerous paths. However, Marcus Carpenter and his organization, Route 1, are opening up exciting new possibilities for these young people who are often left behind. Carpenter, a fourth-generation Black American farmer, is transforming 21st-century farming and empowering youth in Minnesota not only to grow and sell nutritious food but also to make a positive impact on their lives and communities. Carpenter’s agricultural roots run deep, tracing back to his great- grandmother Sally, who purchased 180 acres of farmland in Arkansas in 1914. The road leading to that farm was named Route 1, and today, Carpenter has turned that legacy into a forward-thinking organization that embraces both tradition and innovation. Route 1’s Seeds to Success Youth Academy offers a refreshing opportunity for young people who might be struggling in school or life. Take Anthony Rasmussen, for example. He came from a low-income family but discovered his passion for farming through the program. His involvement in growing part of the 7,000 pounds of produce recently delivered to local community
organizations sparked a desire to pursue a career in agriculture. Route 1 is helping him and many others find a meaningful path forward.
Like many places, Minnesota faces challenges with food insecurity, but Route 1 is addressing this issue with creativity and cultural awareness. By incorporating African crops that thrive in Minnesota’s climate, Route 1 provides nutritious food that connects culturally with the community. It’s a beautiful way to show that agriculture can be both nourishing and culturally significant. Through community-supported agriculture (CSA), Route 1 also builds bridges between farmers and local businesses. This sustainable model boosts the local economy and ensures that fresh, healthy food reaches those who need it most. Marcus Carpenter’s Route 1 is more than just farming — it’s a beacon of hope and a blueprint for a brighter future. By teaching the next generation how to farm, Route 1 is cultivating not just crops but confidence, community, and change. Hopefully, we will see more projects like Route 1 across the country!
SUDOKU
EATS WITH ELLIE
PUMPKIN PIE FRENCH TOAST
INGREDIENTS •
1 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, or as needed
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 cup half-and-half
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
3 large eggs
8 slices day-old bread Maple syrup, to taste
1 tsp ground cinnamon
DIRECTIONS 1. Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium heat. 2. Whisk half-and-half, pumpkin purée, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice together in a bowl. Stir in walnuts until evenly distributed. 3. Place 1 slice of bread in the bowl and let it soak briefly to coat both sides. Lift bread to let excess liquid drip back into the bowl, then transfer to the hot skillet. 4. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until done. 5. Stir batter to redistribute walnuts and repeat with other slices of bread, cooking in several batches if necessary. 6. Serve warm with maple syrup.
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
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