About New Mexico Community Roots Foundation
Our Story
Nestled in the heart of Albuquerque’s South Valley, NM Community Roots Foundation, Inc. will be a haven where children, families, and community members will come together to celebrate nature, wellness, and heritage. The vision to enrich the lives of New Mexico’s youth and families will soon blossom into a unique outdoor learning center dedicated to cultivating a thriving, connected community.
NM Community Roots Foundation, Inc. is more than a place—it’s a movement to inspire future leaders, preserve our cultural heritage, and build a resilient community. Together, we’re growing New Mexico’s future, one seed, one lesson, and one connection at a time.
Founders & Board Members
NM Community Roots Foundation, Inc. was brought to life by three passionate individuals who share a deep love for New Mexico and a commitment to strengthening the South Valley community. Together, they bring unique perspectives and expertise to lead our mission of cultivating education, wellness, and community engagement.
Robert T. Trujillo – Chair
As a lifelong resident of the South Valley and a local business owner, Robert T. Trujillo is dedicated to giving back to the community that shaped him. His vision and leadership drive the foundation’s efforts to create opportunities for future generations. Through his family-owned business, Robert continues to support and invest in the South Valley’s growth and prosperity.
Jayme Herrera – Treasurer
Jayme Herrera serves as Treasurer for the New Mexico Community Roots Foundation. She is a dedicated special education teacher in Albuquerque with extensive experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. Jayme is deeply passionate about outdoor learning and believes hands-on, nature-based experiences create meaningful opportunities for engagement, growth, and confidence for all students. Her background in education and commitment to equity help guide the foundation’s financial stewardship and youth-centered mission.
Leandra Chacon – Secretary
For the past decade, Leandra Chacon has made the South Valley her home, becoming a trusted personal trainer and wellness/nutrition coach. Her commitment to health and wellness is reflected in the foundation’s initiatives, helping to inspire healthier lifestyles for children and families. Leandra’s dedication to uplifting others and fostering community wellness makes her an invaluable part of the team.
Together, these founding members embody the spirit of NM Community Roots Foundation, Inc., combining deep local roots with a shared vision for a brighter, more connected future. Their leadership and dedication are at the heart of our mission to grow New Mexico’s future.
Future Plans
The New Mexico Community Roots Foundation is building a shared outdoor learning space in the South Valley of Albuquerque designed to expand equitable access to agriculture, wellness, and nature-based experiences for youth and families. Our future plans include developing youth-centered agricultural learning opportunities that focus on small animal care, community gardening, and outdoor education.
By creating shared infrastructure such as animal housing and garden spaces, we aim to remove financial and space barriers that prevent many urban youth from participating in hands-on agricultural and outdoor learning activities. Youth will engage directly in caring for animals, growing food, and learning about environmental stewardship through real-world, outdoor experiences that build responsibility, confidence, and connection to the land.
We envision this space as a community resource that supports learning, wellness, and collaboration. Through partnerships, volunteer engagement, and youth leadership, NMCRF will continue to grow programs that honor New Mexico’s agricultural traditions while creating accessible outdoor opportunities for the next generation.
Together, we are cultivating a place where community, learning, and the outdoors come together.