About Us
Rooted: Providing Support for Families to Flourish
MISSION
To equip under-resourced communities, by providing essential mental health and wellness opportunities and connecting individuals to community resources. We aim to expand their agency, foster resilience, and create a more equitable society.
VISION
To foster an environment where children and families are optimally positioned to flourish.
Core Values
Reverence
Respect and compassion for the dignity and diversity of life.
Equity
A state in which life outcomes are no longer predictable by factors like race, gender, zip code, and socioeconomic status.
Holistic
Provide support that addresses the whole person.
Agency
Optimize an individual’s ability to take purposeful action through informed choices.
Key Components
Staff & Board Members
Shala Taylor
Executive Director
Shala Taylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Purpose Driven Counseling. Shala holds Master’s Degrees in Counseling, Teaching and Business Management. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.
Cedric Portis, Sr.
Board Chair
Reverend Cedric Portis has been the Senior Pastor of Third Presbyterian Church for nearly 20 years. He earned Master’s degrees in Divinity and Project Management, as well as, Bachelor’s degrees in Christian Ministry and Mechanical Engineering.
Tanesia Simmons
Board Secretary
Tanesia Simmons is a Partner at The Opportunity Trust. She holds a Master’s degree in Education and Bachelor’s Degree in Urban School Alternatives.
.jpg)
Shanise Johnson
Board Treasurer
Shanise has spent more than 20 years as Executive Director of St. Louis Internship Program: Boys and Girls Club of Greater St. Louis. She earned Master’s degrees in Computer Information Systems and Teaching. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems.
Terrence Allen
Board Member
Terrence has several years of experience working in non-profit leadership. He earned a Master's Degree in Non-Profit Administration and Bachelor's Degree in Child and Family Development.