How One Farmer is Revolutionizing Agriculture for Youth and Fighting Food Insecurity.

Meet Marcus Carpenter, a fourth-generation Black American farmer whose mission is to transform the lives of young people from marginalized communities. Through his innovative organization, Route 1, Carpenter is blending traditional agriculture with cutting-edge technology to address food insecurity and offer hope where it's needed most.

Carpenter's story begins on 180 acres of farmland in Arkansas, a legacy from his great-grandmother Sally, who bought the land in 1914. This is where Route 1 gets its name—the old dirt road that was home to generations of hardworking farmers. Now, Carpenter is bringing a 21st-century twist to this rich tradition, focusing on using agriculture as a tool for empowerment.

At the core of Route 1’s mission is a range of programs designed to educate and inspire. The “Freight Farm,” an innovative project, transforms donated shipping containers into hydroponic gardens capable of producing the equivalent of 4 acres of crops. This high-tech approach not only makes farming accessible but also sustainable. Then there’s the Emerging Farmers Institute, a virtual program offering both farming fundamentals and support for the mental health challenges often faced by those in agriculture.

But perhaps the most impactful program is the Seeds to Success Youth Academy. This initiative offers a lifeline to students struggling in traditional school settings, providing them with practical skills in farming and a sense of purpose.

Anthony Rasmussen, one of the academy’s success stories, is a prime example. Raised by a single mother in a low-income household, Rasmussen found new direction through Route 1. He helped grow part of the 7,000 pounds of produce recently delivered to local community organizations, and his newfound passion for agriculture is now paving a brighter future for him.

The impact of Route 1 extends beyond the students it helps. In a state where 1 in 15 people face food insecurity—and the numbers are even more troubling for communities of color—Carpenter’s approach is both compassionate and practical. By incorporating African crops that thrive in Minnesota’s soil, he’s bridging cultural heritage with modern farming practices. This not only connects students with their roots but also strengthens the community’s food system.

Route 1's dedication to sustainable agriculture includes supporting a “community-supported agriculture” model, linking farmers with local businesses like restaurants and large-scale cafeterias. This helps ensure that fresh, nutritious produce is accessible to those who need it most.

As the Seeds to Success program nears its end on August 14th, Carpenter’s vision continues to grow, just like the crops in the Freight Farm. Through innovative programs and heartfelt commitment, Route 1 is planting the seeds of change, nurturing both the land and the young people who will one day cultivate it.