Roots Community Services

History

For almost four decades, Roots Community Services Inc. (RootsCS), formerly United Achievers’ Community Services Inc., has provided culturally-sensitive and culturally-enriching programs to the Black, African and Caribbean (BAC) communities in the Region of Peel.

RootsCS partnered with agencies of the federal and provincial governments, the Region of Peel, the City of Brampton, other community service agencies and businesses to deliver programs and services that helped individuals and families from BAC communities improve their livelihood, and contributed to building stronger, safer communities in the Region.

The organization was established by the United Achievers’ Club in the mid-1980s to focus on addressing the needs identified primarily in the Black and Caribbean communities. The organization was incorporated in 1998, and in 2000, it received its charitable status, opening up the way to more funding opportunities.

The name was changed to Roots Community Services Inc. in 2019 after extensive consultation with the community members, funders, clients, staff and volunteers during its strategic planning process.

The strategic focus and work of RootsCS are deeply rooted in the passion of its founders. That passion is to provide pathways to wellness – programs and services that reduce, if not eliminate, social and racial inequities that are significant barriers to the successful growth of strong families and individuals within BAC communities.

Over the years, RootsCS has developed capabilities and competencies that allow it to advocate for and deliver services to improve the overall health and well-being of its target population.

In keeping with its strategic direction, the organization has expanded its geographic reach to the Halton Region, collaborating with partner agencies to provide culturally-appropriate, relevant and safe programming to the growing BAC communities in that region.