Roots & Shoots Basecamps

Our mission is to empower young people to affect positive change in their
communities.

Roots & Shoots Basecamps support local, grassroots efforts to amplify the impact of the program.

Basecamps are grown and nurtured by experienced coordinators. These centers of activity are where changemakers gather to:

• Collaborate and network
• Gain inspiration to turn Roots & Shoots community service project ideas into action
• Receive in-person support from like-minded individuals
• Celebrate positive change on the community with locally organized events
• And raise awareness of Roots & Shoots to inspire others to join the movement!

Learn about our Basecamps

Atlanta

Roots & Shoots Basecamp Atlanta is dedicated to helping communities identify problems and opportunities in their own community and empower them to take action to address these issues. Food insecurity, climate change, and solid waste disposal are just some of the challenges our participants are working to combat.

In addition, R&S Basecamp Atlanta has received funding from local Commissioner, Ted Terry to start a Roots & Shoots group at Fernbank Museum.  Commissioner Terry is also supporting the delivery of two community mapping workshops at Dekalb County libraries in partnership with the Fruitful Communities Foundation

Coordinator: Angelle Cooper

Chicago

Chicago is an ideal setting for impactful service projects with its blend of urban and natural spaces, strong history of social activism, and diverse, resilient neighborhoods. From the city’s extensive park system and urban nature areas to neighborhoods rich in cultural heritage, Chicago offers endless opportunities for youth to tackle issues like environmental conservation, food insecurity, and community health, making it an ideal place for projects that make a real difference.

Coordinator: Alex Biswas

Los Angeles

Roots & Shoots groups are working to affect change, right here in Los Angeles. Local groups are fighting food insecurity, planting native gardens, and protecting wild spaces. In 2024, The Los Angeles Roots & Shoots Basecamp is hosting several large-scale events, including an International Day of Peace celebration.

Coordinator: Erin McCombs

Portland

The people and animals of the Portland metropolitan area are as diverse as the land we call home. Located within a three-hour drive from coastal, mountain, desert, and urban environments, the region is rich with a variety of cultures and ecosystems.

At the Portland Roots & Shoots Basecamp, we strive to nurture and support the people and resources of our community to create positive change and a sustainable future.

Coordinator: Washo Shadowhawk

Tampa Bay

As Florida’s largest open water estuary, the Tampa Bay area comprises miles of shoreline and a unique ecosystem. The Tampa Bay Basecamp of Roots & Shoots supports youth-led efforts to restore and protect our environment, as well as the animals and people who live here. In September 2024, we partnered with several local organizations to host the area’s first youth environment summit to inspire local action.

Coordinator: Bonnie Eaton