Ekar Farm: Cultivating a Healthy, Just, and Sustainable Future
At Ekar Farm, we're on a mission to transform Denver's food system. As a communal urban farm, we grow organic, regenerative produce and partner with local food access organizations to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to underserved communities. Through hands-on education and volunteerism, we inspire people of all ages to become stewards of the land. Join us by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word about our work!
Since our founding, Ekar has grown into a vital part of Denver's urban farming community. We've committed to growing 25,000 pounds of food each year, which is distributed to partners like Jewish Family Services, Metro Caring, and Kavod Senior Life, to support food-insecure families. In 2024 alone, we've grown and distributed over 20,000 pounds of nutrient-dense produce, reaching over 19,000 volunteers and program participants.
How We Make an Impact
Ekar is more than a farm - it's a community-driven effort to build a better food system. Our programs teach the next generation about food security, environmentalism, and sustainability. Whether it's hosting field trips for local schools, growing fresh produce for families in need, or celebrating Jewish holidays through farming, Ekar brings together diverse communities to create lasting change.
Your Support Matters
With your help, we can continue to expand our efforts. By donating to Ekar, you are directly supporting thousands of individuals who benefit from our farm's produce and educational programs. Together, we are cultivating a future where everyone has access to healthy, locally grown food.
“Thanks to Ekar Farm, our students received fresh produce, meal kits, and recipes, making healthy eating accessible. It's partnerships like this that help us combat food insecurity in our Montbello community.” - Jessie Boukarim, Facilities, Health + Wellness + Outdoor Learning Specialist
"We're incredibly grateful for our partnership with Ekar Farms. Every other week, they deliver fresh, healthy vegetables to our school, and our students eagerly help pack and distribute them to classrooms. This hands-on experience supports food security while teaching students the value of community service and nutrition for growth. Our families, teachers, and students truly appreciate Ekar's efforts, and we look forward to continuing this wonderful collaboration." -Agustina Yanez, Facilities, Academy 360 Public Charter School
"Hope Communities has been grateful for our partnership with Ekar Farm over the years. From educational programs to delivering fresh produce and meal kits to families in need, Ekar has been an invaluable resource. Their team is inclusive and resourceful, providing access to nutritious foods that many of our residents wouldn't otherwise afford. We deeply value their sustainable impact and the joy they bring to our community." -Martina Torres, Program Manager, Hope Communities
Ekar Farm and Community Gardens is a communal urban farm, inspired by Jewish values. We work to build community, provide experiential and environmental education, and grow sustainably produced fruits and vegetables, expanding access to those in need.
Ekar began in 2009 when the Denver Academy of Torah, with support from Rose Community Foundation and Denver Urban Gardens, sought to transform an unused five-acre plot into a community-driven urban farm. Led by Ilan Salzberg and Aaron Ney, Ekar was founded to promote sustainable agriculture, food justice, and provide fresh produce to local food banks. The name "Ekar" reflects these values, meaning "root source", "farming", or "the most important thing".
Ekar tackles food insecurity in Denver by growing and donating thousands of pounds of organic vegetables each year to hunger relief organizations. In doing so, it educates volunteers about sustainability and food justice. Through partnerships with schools, Ekar also offers nutrition and food system education, inspiring future generations of farmers and advocates.
Today, Ekar remains a community-centered space for growing, learning, and giving. Its programs engage volunteers and students, fostering a connection between local food systems and food equity. By collaborating with urban farms, local businesses, and hunger relief agencies, Ekar helps create a more equitable and sustainable food system in Denver and beyond.
Organization name
Ekar Farm
2010
Tax id (EIN)
45-1567217
Category
Food, Agriculture & Nutrition, Education, Environment, Youth Development
Organization Size
Medium Organization
Address
14800 E Belleview DriveMailing
PO Box 460983Denver County, CO, US
DC, US