We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and enriching communities through innovative and collaborative creative education. At Roots and Beats, our core belief is that art and culture are essential tools for personal growth and community development. Vision and Values At Roots and Beats, our vision is shaped by a deep commitment to providing a curriculum that resonates with every student we encounter. We prioritize making our educational approach culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and bilingual. This commitment stems from our understanding of the importance of meeting our students where they are, and acknowledging their unique backgrounds and experiences. We are driven by a foundational belief: when young people are provided a safe environment to express themselves creatively, to embrace cultural diversity, and to connect with adult mentors, it catalyzes their growth. Such an environment unlocks immense potential, paving the way for the development of a broad spectrum of skills and competencies. This nurturing approach is key in guiding them towards becoming future leaders in their communities. Our values reflect a dedication not only to educate but also to empower. We believe in the transformative power of arts and mentorship, and how they can shape the leaders of tomorrow. Every aspect of our work is imbued with the intent to foster an inclusive, supportive, and enriching experience for the youth we serve.
  Our History Humble Beginnings Roots and Beats began its journey in late 2018, grounded in the vision of using media arts as a transformative tool for youth empowerment in underserved communities. Our focus was set on using music technology as a tool for storytelling and self-exploration, helping young individuals embrace their cultural identities positively and creatively. Our first volunteer-run afterschool program launched with the support of Latino Network, and aimed at weaving tradition and technology to explore the dual identities of immigrant and refugee youth. This initiative underscored the power of music in personal storytelling and cultural expression, providing a space for Latinx youth to delve into their heritage and experiences. Expansion and Cultural Inclusivity Our journey at Roots and Beats began with an emphasis on the cultures and traditions of Latinx communities, celebrating the unique role of music and arts within these vibrant diasporas. In this we also recognize an undoubted overlap between Latinx and non-Latinx Indigenous communities, as well as Afro-indigenous, and Afro-Latinx identities across the Americas. This broadened perspective allows us to delve into the complex and beautiful intersections within these rich cultural tapestries, acknowledging and embracing the diversity of experiences and heritage they represent. In pursuit of this inclusive vision, we have forged partnerships with a variety of school districts and culturally specific community organizations. These alliances enable us to provide tailored programming that thoughtfully centers BIPOC experiences while providing culturally rich programming for underserved youth in our communities. Our aim is to create spaces where participants from various backgrounds can connect with their roots, understand their intertwined histories, and express their multifaceted identities through art and music. Growth and Adaptation In 2019, Roots and Beats received its first grant funding through fiscal sponsorship of the Northeast Coalition of Neighborhoods, allowing us to broaden our impact. Our programs, blending tradition with contemporary technology, started to gain recognition for their innovative approach to cultural storytelling and education. The challenges of the pandemic in 2020 led us to adapt our methods, moving to virtual platforms to maintain our connection with the youth. This period underscored our commitment to resilience and the importance of accessibility in education. The milestone of becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2021 marked a new era for Roots and Beats, enhancing our ability to reach more communities and deepen our impact. As a recognized nonprofit, we gained access to a broader range of resources, funding opportunities, and partnerships, which have been instrumental in expanding our reach to more communities. Looking to the Future Our history is not just a record of growth but a narrative of continuous evolution, adapting to meet the needs of diverse youth populations and empowering them through music, arts, and technology. As we look forward to the future we plan for the launch of our community arts and technology center in 2024, we continue to focus on empowering youth.