At Roots and Wings, our mission has always been simple: help children learn, grow, and feel seen.

Through Project UpLift, young readers in grades 1 through 3 receive free, after-school literacy support that strengthens both skills and confidence. Time and again, we witness a remarkable transformation: children who once hesitated over simple sentences now proudly read stories aloud — a beautiful reminder of how far encouragement, stability, and consistent literacy support can take a child.

Why This Matters Even More During the Holidays

For many of our Project UpLift students, the holiday season can feel uncertain. Not every child has the chance to experience the small joy of receiving something chosen just for them, and moments of celebration can be far and few between. This year, we want every child in our program to feel recognized, uplifted, and included.

That’s why we’re launching a grassroots holiday campaign to bring joy to every Project UpLift student. Each child will receive a toy they select themselves — a meaningful moment of choice, independence, and delight. For many, it will be the only gift they receive this season.

How You Can Help

You don’t need to make a large donation to make a real impact.

A gift of just $2 to $25 helps us ensure every child in Project UpLift receives something special. With the support of caring community members like you, we can bring joy, dignity, and hope to hundreds of young readers.

Please consider giving and sharing this campaign with friends, family, and others who believe in the power of literacy. Every dollar truly matters — and every act of generosity helps us uplift a child.

Give Back & Enjoy a Night Out: Free Holiday Concert + Toy Drive

To make giving even more fun, we’re co-sponsoring a FREE Holiday Concert & Toy Drive December 5th at Old School Square!

Bring an unwrapped toy or make a donation to support local families — and you’ll be entered to win a Fender Stratocaster guitar!

It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season: community, music, generosity, and joy.

Let’s come together and make this holiday brighter for children who need it most. Thank you for supporting Project UpLift and believing in the power of literacy!

Community Partners Making This Campaign Possible

This year’s holiday campaign is proudly sponsored by the Best of Delray Beach Facebook Group, whose members consistently show up for local families and nonprofits. With their support, we’re able to reach thousands of neighbors who care deeply about lifting up children in our community. Their partnership is helping amplify our mission and rally grassroots donations that directly support Project UpLift students this season.

We’re also grateful to be collaborating with the Starboard Group Toy Drive, culminating at the FREE Holiday Concert & Toy Drive on December 5th at Old School Square. The event is co-sponsored by Daniel Hartwell, a longtime community supporter who brings people together through music, generosity, and local impact. His enthusiasm for giving back makes this concert a true celebration of community, kindness, and holiday spirit.

Together — the Best of Delray Beach group, Starboard Group Toy Drive, Daniel Hartwell, and our Roots and Wings family — we’re building a united effort to ensure every Project UpLift student feels valued and celebrated this holiday season. It’s a reminder that when local people come together, small acts of kindness turn into something truly powerful.