Community Events
Rootstock is about more than berries—it’s about building a community grounded in flavor, curiosity, and care for people and planet. Throughout the season, we host a variety of events to help you explore what’s in season, meet the people growing your food, and connect with fellow members.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Rootstock’s first season of events! More gatherings coming soon—stay tuned.
On the afternoon of June 14 in Watsonville, Rootstock members gathered at JSM Organics for a walking tour with founder Javier Zamora. The event—part of Rootstock’s mission to connect people with the land and those who grow their food—offered an intimate look at one of the Central Coast’s most respected organic farms.
Javier’s mission is rooted in community. He grows more than just produce: he mentors beginning farmers, leases land to those without access, and donates food to underserved communities in South San Jose.
“I’m not doing this to get rich,” he told the group. “I want to have a positive impact in my community—to grow good food for people, for my family, and for people like you.”
Members picked and tasted the full spectrum of berries, then got a preview of what’s coming next—tomatoes, peppers, purple brussels sprouts, and more. Javier answered questions and shared stories with his signature warmth and openness.
It was the first Rootstock gathering of its kind—but certainly not the last.
“People aren’t just hungry for berries,” said Rootstock co-founder Julia Sunderland. “They’re hungry for connection—with the food, the land, and each other.”
They were also hungry for tacos. Javier and the team treated the group to a spectacular taco buffet lunch in the beautiful surroundings. One enthusiastic community member is rumored to have eaten eight tacos on her own.
On Saturday, July 26, Rootstock members gathered beneath the redwoods at Huddart County Park in Woodside for an afternoon of connection, cooking demos, and berry-mocktail tastings.
Chef-educator Laura Stec guided us through a tasting experience, pairing peak-season produce from our partner farms with spices, herbs, and tinctures. Members started with the blueberry-lavender fizz and sampled strawberries with cardamom, blackberries with cinnamon, and a pluot and whippped cream dessert drizzled with honey-lavender tincture.
Laura has graciously shared the afternoon’s recipes with Rootstock members. Three are included below, with more coming soon to the Rotstock blog.
Thanks to everyone who was able to join! Community is core to Rootstock and we are grateful you made space to share it with us.
