About Us

Our Story

Dismantling the “School to Prison Pipeline” with the “Garden to College Pipeline”

Roots of Justice is an initiative launched by MiraCosta College in the fall of 2022 to support formerly incarcerated individuals through the transformative power of gardening and regenerative agriculture. Our pilot program not only provides hands-on training and paid employment opportunities for our participants but also helps them develop important mentorship skills by connecting with and inspiring younger generations at two local continuation high schools.

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Our mission is to create a pathway for system-impacted and climate-conscious students to enter the regenerative urban gardening industry, which will give them viable employment opportunities and help improve the employability opportunities for a population that represents multiple racial, ethnic, age, and gender disparities. We strive to provide a culturally relevant and affirming approach to job training and career pathway exploration.

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Roots of Justice was created by Associate Professor Kathleen “Kat” Soto-Gomez, who teaches in the Sociology Department at MiraCosta College and Chris Burroughs, MiraCosta College Alum and founder of the non-profit, Garden 31. Thanks to a $50,000 Strong Workforce Program grant, our pilot program has been able to partner with the MiraCosta College Horticulture Department, the Sustainability Club, and the Transitions Scholars Program to create an interdisciplinary pilot that focuses on regeneration; restoring opportunities for our students while mitigating climate change through soil regeneration.

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We believe that gardening can be a powerful tool for healing and growth. Our pilot program allows students to develop essential skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking while also improving their physical and mental well-being. Our students are growing in agency, confidence, and tools for coping with stress. Roots of Justice wants to continue breaking down barriers and providing pathways to success for formerly incarcerated individuals. We welcome you to join us in supporting this transformative initiative!