About R.O.O.T.S. & B.O.O.T.S. NFP
Real Originals of the Soil Building & Organizing on the Soil
Our mission is to restore and preserve lineage.
We support individuals tracing ancestry connected to populations present in the United States prior to 1865 by providing tools, education, and structured research support.
Our work addresses gaps, inconsistencies, and disruptions in historical records to help families reclaim, document, and protect their generational histories with accuracy and purpose.
The Meaning Behind Our Name
"Roots" reflects our focus on lineage, history, and the preservation of generational knowledge. It is the work of researching, documenting, and protecting family histories grounded in the experiences of those present before and beyond recorded memory. "Boots" represents movement-engagement, advocacy, and presence within the community. It is the work of organizing, supporting, and showing up to ensure that lineage is not only preserved, but recognized and carried forward.
"Together, R.O.O.T.S and B.O.O.T.S is a community-based platform that brings people together through research, preservation, advocacy, and volunteerism-connecting past, present, and future through purposeful action.
Member Stories
Voices From Our Community
Real experiences from individuals who have traced their pre-1865 lineage with the support of R.O.O.T.S. & B.O.O.T.S. NFP.
"I had almost given up on finding my great-great-grandmother's records. After just two sessions with a Roots & Boots researcher, we traced her name back to a plantation record in Mississippi. I cried. I finally know where I come from."
Denise W.
Roots Explorer Member · Chicago, IL
"The genealogy coaching program changed the way I approach research entirely. I now know how to read census records, cross-reference vital records, and identify gaps myself. This organization gave me skills I will pass down to my children."
Robert M.
Lineage Keeper Member · Atlanta, GA
"My family always suspected our records had been altered. The status correction service helped us document what actually happened and gave our family history the dignity it deserves. I am grateful beyond words."
Cheryl J.
Heritage Builder Member · Detroit, MI
"Attending the Community Heritage Day felt like stepping into a space where our stories truly mattered. The researchers, the workshops, the connections I made — it all reinforced why this work is so important for our generation."
Patrick B.
Roots Explorer Member · Memphis, TN
Our Community
Preserving Lineage, Together
From workshops and heritage days to one-on-one research sessions, every gathering strengthens the living record of our community's history.
