Roots and Shoots

Roots and Shoots, a worldwide program for youth, was created by Dr. Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist whose decades of work with animals has educated millions.

Created in 1991, the program’s philosophy is about positive change—for the planet’s people, animals, and the environment. Cornerstones of the philosophy of Roots and Shoots are knowledge, compassion, and action. The program’s name comes from the ideas that roots are strong and anchoring, and while the shoots of a plant may appear weak, they will break through any surface in order to seek light and nourishment. Imagine children and youth breaking through problems in the same way, using their belief system (root) and their will and passion (shoot).

Roots and Shoots allows youth to meet other youth who share similar concerns and ideas. They become part of not just a local or national network, but one that is truly international in scope—youth in nearly 100 countries participate! As such, they connect to find “never-ending ways to educate and inspire one another and build a better future.”

Rhode Island’s only club (thus far) is based out of the Roger Williams Park Zoo, where Chris Hitchener, the area coordinator, works. If you know Chris, he is a wonderful educator and advocate, so this role suits him well. He provides the necessary support for the youth, even though they lead the club. The participants brainstorm issues facing them locally, and all suggestions are honored. A lengthy list of issues is the result, and youth then decide, via a democratic vote, which issues they will tackle.

The club’s current projects include raising awareness for the Amur Leopard and Tiger Association (ALTA), paying for the rehabilitation of a handful of animals at the RI Wildlife Rehabilitators’ Association (funds were raised from a bake sale), and raising funds for the American Cancer Society.

The club meets every other week and typically on the Zoo’s grounds. However, field trips are also taken to enhance their learning and awareness. Recent trips have included the New England Aquarium, the Franklin Park Zoo, the Boston Nature Center, and the University of West Connecticut.

Currently, the club only serves youth ages 9 – 12, but this coming autumn, the club will expand to include youth up to age 17.

Admittedly, the Roots and Shoots club is small, and the Zoo serves as its hub. However, Chris is willing to visit other cities and towns in our state to offer assistance in helping them to create a local Roots and Shoots club of their own.

When I asked Chris what he is most proud of, he admitted it’s the growth of the awareness of the youth who participate. Initially, they are both environmentally and animal-minded, but through their actions and solutions, understand the idea that everything is connected, that an individual’s decisions can have potential global impact. Youth blossom into positive stewards and environmentalists.

 
Indeed, the power of youth is global!

To learn more about the Roots and Shoots program, please visit www.rootsandshoots.org.

PS: The Zoo R&S Club will be visited by “Dr. Jane” on Saturday, May 1. Surely this event will be very exciting! Contact Chris Hitchener for more details: chitchener@rwpzoo.org.