Chelsea’s journey shows someone growing with a space until it becomes part of who they are. What began as simply joining in has developed into leadership, trust, and belonging, with Chelsea now a Director and key holder, playing a key role in the culture of Roots
Chelsea has been attending Roots activities since 2013, when she was just 10 years old. From the very beginning, she threw herself into everything on offer, always showing up with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to get involved. Over the years, she hasn’t just taken part in Roots activities – she’s helped shape them, becoming a familiar, steady presence across so many of the projects and sessions we’ve delivered.
Chelsea has been involved in a wide range of activities, from sports, history and environmental projects to nature sessions, sublimation printing, market stalls, walks, trips, and everything in between. Whatever is happening, Chelsea is usually right there in the middle of it, contributing, supporting others, and bringing a calm, reliable energy that others naturally gravitate towards.
Now a Director and trusted key holder, Chelsea has grown into one of our most trusted young adults. She is, quite simply, 100% rooted in Roots. More than just part of the journey, she’s part of the fabric of it — someone who feels as much a part of the organisation as the spaces we use themselves. In every sense, Chelsea is part of the furniture, and we’re incredibly lucky to have watched her grow and continue growing with us!
Well I’ve been coming for 13 years so there must be something about the vibe and the people that keeps drawing me back. Being one of the longest standing members of Roots, I’ve seen everything evolve from 1 session 2 hours a week to being a full time provision for young people 7 days a week. Seeing all of the achievements and all of the young people gain so much confidence and new skills really instils a sense of pride and honour to be a part of something so rewarding.
Pride – so proud to be a part of Roots and help shape young people’s lives and support them through the in-between, especially those young people who come from really deprived backgrounds like I did.
Loud – Roots activities are full of fun, noise, laughter and chatter. It really is a place where young people can be themselves and grow their personalities in a safe and welcoming environment
Safe – I’ve always felt safe to be myself and this is something we work hard to protect and make sure young people that come to Roots activities feel safe from harm, bullying and everyday challenges.
As a Director my typical Roots session would be opening up Project Room, making sure all the equipment is switched on and ready to use. I make sure the young people are completing their timesheets as this helps us to monitor attendance and what young people are achieving during each session. I help with the cooking of meals, cleaning and supporting young people to do crafts, art, printing and anything they get stuck with. Each session goes so quickly, time really does fly when you are having fun!
