Be the PILLAR. Mentor a Rising Leader.
Rooted & Rising is The Roots Initiative’s year-long leadership and career exposure pathway for Black middle school youth who completed AL3. We pair each young leader with a committed professional who can open doors, model excellence, and walk with them as they build real skills.
What you’ll do
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Commit at least 8 hours each month during the program year
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Meet in approved public or professional spaces in Chicago
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Help your mentee practice leadership, communication, and problem solving
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Support monthly workshops and a simple externship project
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Document each session and communicate only through TRI channels
Who should apply
Professionals, entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders who believe in youth power and can offer steady guidance, clear boundaries, and a real view of work and life. Prior mentoring experience is helpful but not required. Training and support are provided.
Safety is non-negotiable
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Background checks and youth protection training completed before any youth contact
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Approved meeting spaces only. No private homes or isolated areas
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Two-adult or open-area standard whenever possible
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No private DMs, gifts, or unsupervised travel
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Check-in and check-out documented for every meeting
Host sites welcome
Your office, studio, classroom, or community space can host supervised externship hours. If you can provide a visible, professional environment, let us know on the form.
How it works
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Apply below
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Screening and required training
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Matching based on skills, interests, schedule, and location
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Mentoring begins with ongoing staff support
Questions. Email info@therootsinitiative.org