Jose German-Gomez, an environmental activist, educator and certified Master Gardener, is the CEO and founder of the Northeast Earth Coalition (NEEC), now in its 10th year of operation in the Montclair area and beyond. The NEEC works at the community level to protect the environment and promote local sustainability and food security. With the help of volunteers, NEEC operates six community gardens, three pollinator gardens, and a network of little free pantries. NEEC also provide workshops and information to the public on issues of sustainability, including renewable energy and green transportation.