Frequently Asked Questions
General
1. What is Roots to Peaks?
Roots to Peaks is a faith-based nonprofit serving youth ages 8–18, especially from underserved communities. We guide them into the outdoors through hikes, retreats, and mentorship, helping them build confidence, discover purpose, and grow resilience.
2. Who can participate?
Our programs are open to youth ages 8–18. While we focus on underserved communities, any young person interested in outdoor exploration, growth, and healing is welcome.
3. Is outdoor experience required?
Not at all! We welcome beginners and provide training, guidance, equipment, and support to ensure everyone feels safe and confident outdoors.
4. What activities do you offer?
We offer day hikes, fishing trips, outdoor workshops, nature scavenger hunts, team-building activities, and mentorship experiences, all designed to build growth, confidence, and connection.
5. Is there a cost to join?
We aim to keep programs free or low-cost. When fees are necessary, scholarships are available, so finances are never a barrier to participation.
Funding
6. How is Roots to Peaks funded?
Our funding comes from donations, grants, partnerships, and community supporters who believe in our mission.
7. How can I support your mission?
You can give financially, donate outdoor gear, volunteer your time, or partner with us to host workshops, events, or our annual camping trip.
8. Are you a registered charity?
We are in the process of completing our 501(c)(3) registration. Once finalized, all donations will be tax-deductible, and we will provide official documentation upon request.
9. What does Roots to Peaks do with donations?
Every donation directly supports our mission of serving youth through outdoor programs, camps, and mentorship. Funds go toward program supplies, safety equipment, scholarships for families in need, volunteer training, and maintaining a safe, supportive environment for all participants.
10. Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. Roots to Peaks is a registered nonprofit, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors receive a receipt for their records.
Safety
11. Are volunteers screened?
Yes, youth safety is our top priority. All volunteers and leadership — including founders and owners — undergo annual background checks. Anyone supervising overnight trips undergoes a Level 2 background check. Mother Vehicle records are also checked.
12. How does Roots to Peaks ensure the safety of youth during programs?
Safety is our top priority. All activities are led by trained staff and volunteers, with age-appropriate guidelines, first aid readiness, and emergency plans in place. We also maintain low youth-to-leader ratios to provide close supervision.
13. How are medical needs and allergies handled?
Parents/guardians provide medical information during registration, and our leaders are trained to respond appropriately. We also require clear communication about allergies, medications, or other health concerns.
14. What accountability measures are in place for leaders?
Leaders are never alone with youth (we follow a “two-adult rule”), receive ongoing training, and are supervised by ministry leadership. We also encourage open communication between parents, staff, and volunteers.
15. How do you handle reports of misconduct or concerns?
We take all concerns seriously. Roots to Peaks has a clear reporting process and accountability structure to ensure issues are addressed quickly, fairly, and transparently.