Our Programs
Summer Liberation Lab
Our Summer Liberation Lab is the essential launchpad for aspiring leaders. This immersive bootcamp serves as the official induction into our AL3 Leadership Fellowship, providing a foundational experience in community building, social change exploration, and the development of core leadership skills.
Andre' Lamont Smith III (AL3) Leadership Fellowship
Building upon the foundations of the Summer Liberation Lab, our 8-month AL3 Leadership Fellowship empowers Black middle school youth to become active agents of change. Through healing-centered engagement and project-based leadership, students delve into cultural identity, wellness, and collective responsibility. This program culminates in the development of impactful capstone projects, equipping them to launch initiatives that inspire transformative civic and social change within their communities.
The Rooted & Rising Leaders
Leveraging the skills and projects cultivated in the Fellowship, the Rooted & Rising Leaders Pipeline (R&R) is a year-long externship that bridges the gap between leadership potential and long-term career success. By connecting students with local professionals and businesses, R&R offers hands-on career exploration and mentorship. Students expand upon existing capstone projects, gaining real-world experience and building vital networks. This program cultivates future educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and artists who will drive economic development and strengthen their communities.
Our Mission & Vision
The Roots Initiative (TRI) is driven by a powerful mission: to activate Black youth as the architects and leaders of transformative civic and social change in their communities and beyond. We believe that, when youth are provided with the social-emotional supports, education, and resources to understand their power, identity, culture, and inherent genius, then they will have a greater sense of possibility as well as the confidence and knowledge to engage civically, resulting in positive economic, civic and social change in their communities and city.
Rooted in our values of cultural and identity awareness, social-emotional wellness and collective responsibility and power, we will bring our vision of thriving, self-determined communities actualized through youth leadership and civic engagement to fruition.
Our Impact
84% of our fellows felt safe and comfortable being themselves during the AL3 Leadership Fellowship. They experienced joy throughout the program and felt their voices were heard and valued. Many reported being better equipped to handle negative thoughts and emotions and felt more confident in managing conflict and challenges in positive ways.
78% of our fellows reported gaining a deeper understanding of themselves as individuals. Through the program, they also developed a greater appreciation for Black liberation movements, recognizing their importance and impact on history and society. Additionally, fellows expressed a more profound understanding of our shared history and cultural identity, helping them connect more meaningfully with their heritage.
78% of our fellows built stronger connections with their peers during the fellowship. They expressed a newfound confidence in their leadership abilities and their capacity to create positive change within their communities. Moreover, they gained a deeper understanding of how their individual strengths and contributions play a vital role in collective power and progress.
Hear From Our TRI Tribe Leaders!
Get ready to be inspired! In this powerful video, our incredible youth share their heartfelt thoughts and reflections on our founder and the meaningful work we do at The Roots Initiative. Their voices are a testament to the impact of our organization and the importance of empowering the next generation. Tune in and join us on this journey of growth, empowerment, and community upliftment.
Our Partners
Working With the Best
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