Rooted in Growth, Thriving in Purpose

Every young man deserves more than just a chance—he deserves a foundation. One built on real support, clear guidance, and meaningful opportunity. That’s why we’re here. Rooted Ones is more than a mentorship program—it’s a brotherhood, a family, and a movement. We walk alongside young men as they navigate school, careers, and life’s toughest moments—giving them the tools, mindset, and support to break cycles, beat the odds, and build futures they can be proud of. Our mission is simple but powerful: to empower young men through mentorship, education, leadership development, career prep, and financial literacy.

Breaking the Cycle

In Louisiana, too many young men are being pushed out of schools and into the criminal justice system, often due to systemic barriers, lack of support, and limited opportunities.
Louisiana ranks among the top states for incarceration rates, with young Black men disproportionately affected.

Students suspended or expelled are nearly three times more likely to have future encounters with the justice system, highlighting the direct connection between school discipline policies and incarceration rates.

Only 60% of Black male students in Louisiana graduate high school on time, significantly reducing their chances of higher education or career advancement.

The Four Pillars

This is How We Help You Grow into the Man You’re Meant to Be
At Rooted Ones, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all mentorship. We believe in building you from the ground up—strong, focused, and ready for whatever life brings. Everything we do is shaped by our Four Pillars: Rooted, Responsible, Respectable, and Resilient. These aren’t just words. They’re the way we guide you, challenge you, and support you every step of the way.

1
Rooted

We help you stay grounded in who you are.

To grow strong, you have to be deeply rooted—in your values, your culture, and your purpose. We teach our young men to embrace their identity, stay connected to their community, and never forget where they came from. Knowing your roots gives you the confidence to stand tall no matter what life throws your way

2
Responsible

We teach you how to own your actions—and your future.

Success doesn’t happen by chance; it happens by choice. Being responsible means taking control of your actions, your education, and your goals. We teach accountability, financial literacy, and leadership so that our young men are prepared to take charge of their own futures.

4
Resilience

We prepare you to push forward, no matter what. Life gets hard—but quitting won’t be your story.

Life will throw obstacles in your way, but resilience is what separates those who rise from those who fall. We prepare our young men to face adversity head-on, learn from their struggles, and keep pushing forward. No matter the challenge, we never quit—we elevate.

3
Respectable

We show you how to move with integrity and honor.

Respect isn’t just given; it’s earned. We instill the importance of being a respectable man—one who leads with integrity, treats others with dignity, and holds himself to a higher standard. Whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the community, respect is the key to building strong relationships and lasting opportunities.

1
Rooted

We help you stay grounded in who you are.

To grow strong, you have to be deeply rooted—in your values, your culture, and your purpose. We teach our young men to embrace their identity, stay connected to their community, and never forget where they came from. Knowing your roots gives you the confidence to stand tall no matter what life throws your way

2
Responsible

We teach you how to own your actions—and your future.

Success doesn’t happen by chance; it happens by choice. Being responsible means taking control of your actions, your education, and your goals. We teach accountability, financial literacy, and leadership so that our young men are prepared to take charge of their own futures.

4
Resilience

We prepare you to push forward, no matter what. Life gets hard—but quitting won’t be your story.

Life will throw obstacles in your way, but resilience is what separates those who rise from those who fall. We prepare our young men to face adversity head-on, learn from their struggles, and keep pushing forward. No matter the challenge, we never quit—we elevate.

3
Respectable

We show you how to move with integrity and honor.

Respect isn’t just given; it’s earned. We instill the importance of being a respectable man—one who leads with integrity, treats others with dignity, and holds himself to a higher standard. Whether in the classroom, the workplace, or the community, respect is the key to building strong relationships and lasting opportunities.

Our community and embrace a journey of growth and connection. Our mission and help us create a positive impact. Share your knowledge and guide others toward success.

Impact Stories

Rayquan

Rooted Ones has truly impacted my life by providing a judgment-free space where I can always find someone to talk to. It has been a strong support system, helping me navigate tough times and grow into the person I am today. Without Rooted Ones, I wouldn’t have gained the knowledge and life skills that continue to shape my future. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of decision-making. Before, I would act without thinking, often putting myself in bad situations. But through this brotherhood, I’ve learned to analyze situations before making choices, which has helped me avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Rooted Ones is more than just an organization—it’s a family. Joining was the best decision I’ve ever made

Jarren W.

Rooted Ones has truly impacted my life by providing a judgment-free space where I can always find someone to talk to. It has been a strong support system, helping me navigate tough times and grow into the person I am today. Without Rooted Ones, I wouldn’t have gained the knowledge and life skills that continue to shape my future. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the power of decision-making. Before, I would act without thinking, often putting myself in bad situations. But through this brotherhood, I’ve learned to analyze situations before making choices, which has helped me avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Rooted Ones is more than just an organization—it’s a family. Joining was the best decision I’ve ever made

Meet the Founder

Understanding the profound impact communities have on their youth, Pierre Hollins has spent over a decade working with at-risk youth in both educational and juvenile justice settings. Throughout this experience, he witnessed firsthand the challenges young men face due to a lack of guidance, mentorship, and resources. He saw the devastating impact of the school-to-prison pipeline but also the transformative power of mentorship in changing lives.

In February 2017, he founded Rooted Ones—a movement dedicated to uplifting young men through mentorship, education, and opportunity. His vision was to create more than just a program; he wanted to establish a brotherhood that provides young men with the tools to break generational cycles and build successful futures.

Hollins has helped countless young men graduate high school, enroll in college or vocational programs, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Rooted Ones is committed to ensuring that every young man has access to guidance, support, and real opportunities for success.
With unwavering dedication, Pierre Hollins continues to lead Rooted Ones toward a future where mentorship empowers young men to rise above adversity, thrive academically, and become leaders in their communities.

Grow With Us

Together, we’re breaking cycles, lifting each other up, and creating real change. This isn’t just mentorship—it’s movement. And you belong here.

Volunteer as a Mentor

Get Involved – Be a mentor, a supporter, or just someone who believes in the mission. 

Sign Up to Become a Brother

Young men seeking guidance—join our community to connect with a mentor and achieve your goals! 

Stay Connected!

Tell your friends and community about Rooted Ones and the critical work we’re doing.