About Us
Project Roots AZ is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit operating in Seattle, Washington, and Phoenix, Arizona. We combat food insecurity by providing fresh produce from our gardens, as well as gleaned and rescued food, distributing it to the community through various channels including home delivery for seniors and families, and donations to food banks and pantries. Through advocacy, we raise awareness and work to influence policies that support food justice. Additionally, we offer educational workshops and install vertical growing systems in schools and qualified families’ homes to empower individuals in growing their own food and building sustainable communities.
Our Mission
To promote food justice through advocacy, food literacy, and equitable access to fresh, healthy food.
Our Vision
At Project Roots, we envision a future where every individual has reliable access to fresh, nutritious food and the knowledge to grow, prepare, and advocate for it. Through innovative agriculture and community-driven solutions, we strive to build healthier, more connected, and equitable communities in Washington, Arizona, and beyond.
Our Story
Dionne Washington started a small family farm in Phoenix, Arizona with little more than a passion for fresh food and a determination to feed her family; as the garden grew, she slowly began feeding the community around her. What began as sharing surplus turned into organized food distributions for families facing food insecurity, over time became a nonprofit that coordinated volunteer growers, partnered with local stores and clinics, and expanded distribution points across several nearby communities. Today the organization is a strong advocate in its field while it educates the community, installs Tower Gardens in schools, and provides regular food boxes to hundreds of households, sustaining a network of support that began with one woman's simple desire to put healthy food on her family's table.
Board Of Directors
Dionne Washington
PresidentDionne is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Project Roots, a Phoenix- and Seattle-based nonprofit advancing food access and sustainability through urban farming. Since 2019, she has built partnerships with farmers, food banks, and public agencies, earning recognition including the 2022 Women of Achievement Award and Arizona Forward’s 2024 Emerging Sustainability Leader award.
A certified WNBPA agent and DBA candidate in Marketing, she is dedicated to mentoring emerging leaders and creating lasting impact at the intersection of nonprofits and sports.
Jessica Diamond
Director Of OperationsJessica Diamond is the Co-Founder and Director of Programs for Project Roots, a Phoenix- and Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to food justice, nutrition, and community empowerment. A former Division I basketball player from Houston, Texas, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s in Exercise Science from Wichita State University, where volunteering at food banks ignited her passion for fighting hunger.
At Project Roots, Jessica leads program development, partnerships, fundraising, events, and operations, driven by the belief that every community deserves access to fresh, healthy food.
Camille Benton
SecretaryCamille Benton has served in the United States Air Force for over two decades, earning numerous awards for her commitment to “Service Before Self.” She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing her MBA.
A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Camille shares her love of gardening and community involvement with her family, believing that the greatest gifts we can give are our time and love.
Genel Burwell
Vice-PresidentGenel Burwell is a dedicated community leader who has spent more than three decades in parks and recreation, overseeing major capital projects, community programs, and partnerships that promote equity, engagement, and sustainability.
As a member of the Project Roots Board, Genel brings expertise in strategic planning, resource development, and community outreach, and is committed to building vibrant communities where all residents can thrive.
“Thank you to everyone who has believed in Project Roots and helped us reach this moment. The work is just beginning, and I can't wait to see what we grow together.”
— Dionne Washington