Generation Growth

"Generation Growth is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we put hope, education, and healthy food in the hands of our children. Stephen Ritz's work is transforming classrooms and communities across America, demonstrating that a garden can do much more than grow vegetables—it can cultivate brighter futures. A must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of education to change lives.”

GENERATION GROWTH is a feast for the mind, heart and spirit. It shows what's possible when inspiration and innovation take on some of society's thorniest challenges. Stephen and Lizette Ritz have catalyzed a revolution — and a revelation: that we can grow and educate healthy children, even in some of America's most forgotten corners. This film will change how you think about food, education, children, poverty, disability and what it takes to transform lives and communities. It should be required viewing at every education conference, PTA meeting and teacher training program.

Generation Growth is a must-see inspirational juggernaut. The story of Green Bronx Machine's amazing success bringing hands-on, inventive learning to students across the country is a catalyst for a monumental shift towards empathetic, community-driven education. It was our distinct pleasure to premiere Generation Growth at the Tufts Food & Nutrition Innovation Institute to an audience of food system leaders uniquely positioned to capitalize on the motivational impact of this film. Stephen Ritz's captivating energy and infallible enthusiasm are the beating heart of this incredible movement. Bravo Green Bronx Machine, it is an honor to walk this road with you!!

“By connecting students to food in their own classrooms, Green Bronx Machine is helping our children to learn and grow alongside the fruit and vegetables they harvest. Generation Growth is evidence of how a commitment to educating and engaging students in learning about what they eat provides lessons that can last a lifetime, nurturing healthier lifestyles and sowing the seeds for successful futures. Stephen Ritz and the team at Green Bronx Machine have changed the lives of countless children and families, and have the power to transform many more communities for generations to come.”

Generation Growth gives us the hope we need right now. The film captures the dedication of teachers and the impact of plants, showing how they can transform a school and uplift a community. It's amazing to see how gardening can improve student attendance, reduce behavior problems, and boost grades. This film illustrates how a simple garden can nurture hope, growth, and create a sense of togetherness.

Generation Growth’s riveting message will resonate with diverse audiences – from academics and data scientists to elected officials and equity warriors. Stephen Ritz, the empathetic leader of Green Bronx Machine and the film’s focus for the inspired work being done through the power of plants, is a shining example of how leaning into accountability pays dividends. A connector of dots between growing good food and growing happy, resilient youth, Ritz sees potential in every child. Generation Growth is transformative truth-telling.

GENERATION GROWTH is a must see film! Bursting with passion, purpose, hope, and determination, GENERATION GROWTH presents a replicable roadmap for improved public health, empowered citizens, and transformative public education. Coupling food with joy-filled education, Ritz and company enfranchise public schools, celebrate teachers and children, build communities and trust, put healthy food in hungry bellies, and demonstrate the exuberant power of people coming together to harvest hope, cultivate minds, and grow food & opportunities. GENERATION GROWTH and Ritz remind us of the promise of America and demand us to imagine, to believe, and to act accordingly: BRAVO!

“Generation Growth is that rare film that reminds us of what is possible when we apply optimism, creativity and a large dose of resilience to a real challenge. It inspires the hope we need today. Watch the film and become part of the Generation Growth movement - change the world one seed at a time.”

What do you get when you combine one of the most powerful couples in education with an award-winning director? A stunning film that will have you crying as Green Bronx Machine created by Stephen and Lizette Ritz gets replicated for children in America’s heartland. But Generation Growth as a fine work of advocacy will also leave you angry that we’ve let so much time pass without giving every single child in America and beyond the same opportunity to be nurtured and empowered by their food program. This film can make that happen.

Stephen Ritz is pure magic, and so is Generation Growth. Equal parts inspiring, instructive and fun, the film tells the story of how combining healthy food with hands-on education can rebuild entire schools and the communities they serve. A must-watch if you care about the future of our kids and want to play a transformative role in their lives!

This film, Generation Growth, is all about hope—hope that kids can change the world by growing food and hope that they can change their own communities for the better. Watch it, be inspired, and take action!

"As a School Food Service Director for four decades, I found that the most effective way to foster healthy nutrition habits among students, teachers, and families was by integrating nutrition and culinary education directly into the school day. Stephen Ritz's Green Bronx Machine has taken this concept to new heights, streamlining the process and creating lasting, sustainable changes in mindsets across entire communities. His approach not only empowers students and teachers but also extends beyond the classroom to school cafeterias, families, farmers and many community leaders and organizations. The film, Generation Growth, demonstrates the impact and excitement of meaningful, long-term improvements resulting from inspired education, community nutrition, and wellness programming. Generation Growth is the blueprint for what is possible today and tomorrow in public schools. Simply put, Generation Growth is a must-see film for parents, educators, community leaders, and policy makers committed to high performing schools, and happy, healthy children everywhere. BRAVO!”

"Imagine a classroom where hope grows alongside vibrant vegetables, and children's eyes light up with the wonder of nurturing life from seed to harvest. This is the heartwarming reality captured in "Generation Growth," a documentary that will leave you inspired and moved. At its center is Stephen Ritz, a passionate educator whose infectious enthusiasm transforms the lives of students in the South Bronx. As you watch these young minds blossom alongside their plants, you'll feel a surge of optimism for the future. The film doesn't just show a program; it reveals a revolution in education that nourishes bodies, minds, and souls. Through the struggles and triumphs of the students and their dedicated teacher, "Generation Growth" reminds us of the extraordinary potential within every child and community, waiting for the right opportunity to flourish and their power of community in the fight towards a healthier, safer, more sustainable food system!"-

Throughout my 40 years as an educator and leader, I firmly believe that the answers to the world's most complex problems are dormant seeds in the minds of students around the world. It is on us to cultivate those seeds so they bear fruit, no matter where they are in the world. Stephen Ritz's documentary #GenerationGowth totally embodies that imperative in an infectious and palpable way. We often give more respect to seeds than to children, yet children are humanity’s ‘seeds’ of a combined future and hope. In this impactful and insightful story about #BeingTheChange, we are all stakeholders. Poor health, diet-related diseases, food insecurity, and underperforming education continue to affect low-income and marginalized communities across the United States. Follow Stephen Ritz on an inspirational journey of compassion, hope, and endurance as he works to make the world a better place through unique education opportunities that transform lives and communities.

Generation Growth gives us the hope we need right now. The film captures the dedication of teachers and the impact of plants, showing how they can transform a school and uplift a community. It's amazing to see how gardening can improve student attendance, reduce behavior problems, and boost grades. This film illustrates how a simple garden can nurture hope, growth, and create a sense of togetherness.

Information and contact details about the film, the campaign and how to join it, how to host a screening or how to support the Green Bronx Machine and bring it to your school