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Charity Work

WHO WE ARE

ROOTED was founded on a simple belief: strong foundations lead to lasting growth. Like a tree with deep roots, individuals and communities need access, stability, and support to thrive. We’re breaking down barriers in education, health, and economic empowerment—creating real opportunities through programs, partnerships, and bold action.

Our Why & How

At ROOTED, our name reflects more than just an idea—it’s a commitment to action. It represents the principles that guide our work and the way we show up for communities every day.

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  • R – Resilience → We help individuals and communities build the strength to overcome challenges and grow.

  • O – Opportunity → We create meaningful pathways for success in education, health, and economic empowerment.

  • O – Outreach → We actively engage with communities, listening and responding to their needs with real solutions.

  • T – Transformation → We focus on long-term change, ensuring the impact of our work extends beyond today.

  • E – Access to Essential Resources → We believe access is a right, not a privilege, and work to remove barriers in every area we serve.

  • D – Development → We invest in personal and community growth, ensuring sustainability and continued success.

Why it Matters

At ROOTED for Change, we believe everyone deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. Yet, systemic barriers often prevent marginalized communities from receiving the resources they need to thrive—leading to cycles of poverty, limited mobility, and diminished well-being.

Education plays a key role in breaking these cycles. It shapes health, economic opportunity, and lifelong outcomes. Without access to mentorship, mental health support, or workforce training, individuals and families face compounding challenges that span generations.

Our Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

At ROOTED for Change, our team is united by a shared commitment to access, opportunity, and lasting impact. We’re educators, advocates, and leaders working together to remove barriers and help communities thrive.

Board of Directors

Phillip Philon 

Board Chair ​

Project Milon

Delvia Gomez

Board Member 

YES Prep

Misti Zu-Bolton

Board Member 

Envision Education 

Marion Masters 

Board Member 

Consulting 

Dr. John Edwards

Board Member & Founder 

ROOTED for Change

Sheneka Lucenio

Board Vice-Chair 

Consulting 

Tarence Hines

Board Member

Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce

Nicky DeMoss

Board Member 

Consulting

Dr. Darius Kirk

Board Member 

Oral Roberts University 

Trent Kravitz

Board Secretary

​Oakland Lacrosse Club

Rachel Roberts 

Board Member 

SEED Schools 

Adjoa Mcdonald

Board Member 

Vallejo Project

Samuel Piyush

Board Member 

Amazon

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