About ROOTS
ROOTS is an Indigenous-led nonprofit organization focused on reconnecting Indigenous youth and families outdoors! Camp ROOTS is where Indigenous families learn, grow, and have fun in our natural world. Our program is designed to teach about wildlife and Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) through hands-on experiences, while also promoting physical health and life skills for everyone!
At Mother Earth ROOTS, our initiatives are right in the name, ROOTS! Reconnecting Ourselves Outdoors, Traditionally and Spiritually. We aim to get Indigenous youth and their families outdoors and reconnect to Mother Earth.
Our leaders take children and families on camps full of outdoor activities, including but not limited to: paddle boarding, nature based games, hiking, cold plunges, observing and understanding of all living things, and storytelling/oral traditions.
We hope to empower and prepare young indigenous leaders while fostering a sense of responsibility and care for the land.
We believe the outdoors is for everyone but it is necessary to indigenous people.
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is a branch of Native science we use as a pillar to our teachings. It is important to see and experience what you are learning about.​​​
The programs at Camp ROOTS are developed and structured around the following core areas:
Reconnecting
Disconnect by reconnecting with Nature
Disconnect from media and devices
"Studies shows that kids who play outside are happier, better at paying attention and less anxious than kids who spend more time indoors. Spending time in nature can build their confidence, encourage, creativity, and teaches them how to take care of the environment" - Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
Grounding
Walking barefoot, practicing yoga, and swimming in natural water allowing the body to absorb minerals, are all ways we ground ourselves at Camp ROOTS.
Strengthen our knowledge of the Earth
The best way reconnect with our Mother Earth is to learn about it and experience it. Students pose questions and use their experiences to answer those questions while also using local resources.
Ourselves
Native Americans and other Indigenous families across generations
Generational
At our camps, we are delighted to observe the intergenerational bonding within families. The grandparents get to spend quality time with their children and grandchildren, while also imparting traditional wisdom.
Families
We provide a distinctive experience of families bonding outdoors while children learn and develop alongside their loved ones, creating-lasting memories and skills.
Indigenous community building
Our Native families can establish a stronger community by connecting with each other. They have formed supportive relationships beyond our camps and have extended their connections to other areas of life!
Outdoors
Our planet Earth is the most significant educator and enchantment!
Oceans, Rivers, Lakes, Beaches, and Waterfalls
Natural bodies of water are some of the best the natural world has to offer! We try to visit as many rivers, lakes, beaches and waterfalls we can find during our camps. Kayaking and paddle boarding is a favorite way to explore the water.
Redwoods and Forests
Northern California is known for its immense and ancient Redwood trees. The diverse forests make for beautiful and interesting walks.
Mountains and Cliffs
Our group enjoys exploring the stunning views and distinctive ecosystems offered by California's mountainous terrain through various hikes and cliff expeditions.
Traditionally
Here at ROOTS we include Traditional Ecological Knowledge practices and education while establishing new traditions through repetition
TEK education
Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is the on-going accumulation of knowledge, practice and belief about relationships between living beings in a specific ecosystem that is acquired by indigenous people over hundreds or thousands of years through direct contact with the environment, handed down through generations, and used for life-sustaining ways.
TEK Practices
Our partners at Xa Kako Dile host us at Fortunate Farm for families to learn about farming food and medicine. Xa Kako Dile is an Indigenous lead and directed non-profit with a mission to respect and steward traditional ecological knowledge, healing Indigenous ancestral lands, building resilience in our communities with culture, food, medicine and education.
Native American teachings
Our leaders also guide groups in Indigenous teachings such as fire making and hair braiding along with traditional songs and drum circles.
Spiritually
Spiritual Connection between human beings and the environment (Eco-Spirituality)
Connection to our ancestors
When we walk along ancient redwood trees we are reminded of our people who came before us and also walked those woods. We know our ancestors lived and died there, becoming a part of the land and new life.
Cleansing
Cleansing our bodies with natural water is a way Native Americans use to cleanse their mind and body. Modern day science shows it can improve mood, cognitive function, and reduce stress.
Healing
Being outdoors can be healing for the mind and body. Spending time in nature can help fight depression, lower anxiety, and boost your immune system and overall well-being.