2023 will mark an incredible 10 years in operation for Building Roots. Founders Lisa Kates and Darcy Higgins have grown our organization from a grassroots social venture to a robust registered charity serving the Downtown East communities. We operate our Moss Park Market, an urban farm, and offer many community programs meant to create community connections and build community resilience.
As we continue to grow our impact, 2023 will see a change in the leadership of Building Roots. Lisa and Darcy are branching out to begin a new venture together that will continue enabling people to develop community and environmental programs.
In January, our new Executive Director Caroline Clair, who’s been with us since October, will take over our daily operations. Lisa and Darcy will remain connected to advise our organization as Board Members at Large.
It’s with endless gratitude that we wish Lisa and Darcy the best with their new plans. Their innovative leadership has made an indelible impact on the lives of thousands and their insights on building community resiliency will continue to help others for many years to come.
In their honour, this holiday giving season we have set up the Lisa Kates and Darcy Higgins Legacy Fund. The funds will go towards our new Gathering Space beside the Moss Park Market, with programs including our Do-It-Together workshop series, youth arts programs, and many programs in development including ones that will be community-led.
We have a goal of raising at least $10,000 for this fund before the end of the year, with programming set to get underway in the new container in January. Your support for our programs in our new space will be a wonderful show of appreciation for all Lisa and Darcy have built since 2013.