Rooted Ones

Rooted Ones exists with one clear mission: to help end the school-to-prison pipeline by investing in young men before systems invest in their failures. We serve young men in Greater New Orleans who face barriers that too often lead from classrooms to courtrooms. Through consistent mentorship, positive male role models, and life-skills development, we interrupt that trajectory.

Our program equips young men with academic support, financial literacy, and social-emotional tools that build confidence, accountability, and leadership. We believe prevention is powerful, and that when young men are rooted in guidance, opportunity, and community, they can rewrite their stories.

When you support Rooted Ones, you’re helping shift outcomes, strengthen families, and build safer, healthier communities, one young man at a time.

Testimonials

Rooted Ones has shaped me into the young man I am today. I’d say I’m a walking product of Rooted Ones. Learning to walk with morals, to have pride in who I am, and to truly believe in myself is what Rooted Ones is all about, helping a hand in need and standing strong in who you are.

I am forever grateful to be a part of this community, building bonds with other young men. I was taught that I am not alone in this world. Rooted Ones has taught me how to dig deep, to walk by faith and not by sight, and to trust in my team, which is very important as a professional boxer.

Having Petey on my side, I was taught to strive for greatness, to never give up, and to never settle for less. I learned how to roll with the punches, both in the ring and in life. Because of Rooted Ones, I’ve had the opportunity to further my education, take risks, and gamble big… but wisely.

- Junior P.

Being part of Rooted Ones has shown me I don’t have to face life alone. Through brotherhood, support, and guidance, I’ve learned healthier ways to cope with challenges and discovered a clearer path for my future after high school. Rooted Ones has helped me gain discipline, achieve my goals, and grow into a better version of myself.

- Kolbe M.

It is truly an honor and a blessing for my son to be a part of such a great organization. Rooted Ones plays a tremendous role in his life, their values and morals are helping mold him into a great and successful young man.

Mr. Hollins is deeply dedicated to ensuring my son stays on the right path. He continuously provides guidance, opportunities, and valuable resources that encourage growth and success. Through Rooted Ones, my son has been reintroduced to church, taught practical ways to earn money, and exposed to meaningful experiences that are shaping his character.

One of the most impactful moments was his participation in a Mental Health Camp, something we didn’t realize he truly needed until we saw the difference it made. Mr. Hollins also holds my son accountable and teaches him how to communicate effectively and productively.

Rooted Ones has truly become an extended family for my son. The mentorship, guidance, and unwavering support they provide are priceless and deeply appreciated.

— Danielle W.

Rooted Ones… When I think of “Rooted Ones,” the first thing that stands out to me is how being in the program changed my perspective on life. The older brothers and mentors don’t just talk about being men, they show us every day through their guidance, patience, leadership, and even their jokes and laughter in the group chat. They push us to grow, stay focused, and carry ourselves with purpose, which is also reflected in our Rooted Ones creed. 

What I appreciate most is how we learn through experience. Recently, we visited the Whitney Plantation, and it opened my eyes to our history in a powerful way. It helped me understand where we come from and why it’s important for us to carry ourselves with strength and pride.

Before that, we went go‑kart riding. I couldn’t make it, but it still reminded me that bonding, laughing, and enjoying life together matters just as much as the serious moments and that says a lot considering Mr. P (Da Great), the founder of Rooted Ones, he’s probably the most unserious and serious person I know.

Most importantly, Rooted Ones has given me a safe space to grow, brothers I can trust, and mentors I can look up to. I’m grateful to be part of this journey, and I know that day by day it’s shaping me and my brothers into amazing young Black men.

- Leslie B.