Mission

To develop leadership and empower youth living in disadvantaged communities through youth-led, youth-driven community service projects, thereby fostering a greater sense of agency and increased civic engagement.

What We Do

Upward Roots is a nonprofit organization that develops leadership and empowers youth from disadvantaged communities through community service. Founded in 2010, Upward Roots engages youth in a dynamic curriculum based on education, leadership, and service learning, promoting the idea that each and every young person can be a positive change maker within their community. By providing the training and mentorship needed to successfully plan and execute community service projects of their own design, Upward Roots helps young people develop into emerging leaders, while also improving self-confidence, academic progress, personal development, and civic attitudes.