Project ROOTS

for youth ages 14 to 17

At Project ROOTS, we believe that allowing young people the space to explore topics of identity, build self-love and empowerment, and gain the tools to manage conflicts and bias can be the foundation upon which a more equitable and just society can grow. We believe that once individuals are reminded of their wholeness, they can begin to dismantle the multiple layers of oppression, from the inside out.

Our cornerstone program, Project ROOTS, is an immersive social justice and human relations experience. We bring together students ages 14-17 for a weeklong residential retreat where we co-construct a community based in compassion, self-reflection and responsibility. We unplug from technology and plug into each others’ humanity and stories, putting those stories in the context of our individual and collective histories. Through experiential workshops and large and small group dialogue, we delve into topics of identity, justice and solidarity. We remember that we are boundless beings full of wonder and expansion. As we strip away fear, scarcity and division, we are better able to regain a sense of wholeness and beloved community.

We recommend that schools and community groups send a youth cohort in order to build the critical mass needed to catalyze social change.  

Apply Today!

“ROOTS helped me realize a lot about myself, and discovering me and my identities is only going to help me stand in solidarity.

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During this life-changing journey, our youth participants will:

  • cultivate self-love and empowerment

  • develop empathy for the experiences of others

  • explore identity, equity, and justice

  • build community and solidarity

  • challenge bias and oppression

  • mindfully engage in activism

  • catalyze social change at the personal, interpersonal and systemic levels

Student Paperwork Submission Form

What Community is Saying about ROOTS

“What haven’t I learned? Family, friendships, respect, being opened minded, human connection. I have mostly learned to listen and take away valuable lessons from other’s stories. ”

“The importance of not being married to things just because they have been done in the past; to let go and trust the process and people in our community. to always be mindful of the space I’m taking up and when/how/if I should use my voice and my body. ”

“ROOTS is like nothing else I’ve participated in. It is a practice of opening your heart and mind to a universal connection to others. ”