Today we’d like to introduce you to Project Wild Rooted Project Wild Rooted.
Hi Project Wild Rooted , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Project Wild Rooted began in May of 2021 with a simple dream shared between the owners, Laura Greene and Michelle Wille, to give children the opportunity to slow down, explore, and truly connect with the world around them.
We wanted children to have a place where learning extended beyond the walls of a traditional classroom—a place where they could get their hands dirty, ask questions, build confidence, discover new interests, and develop skills that would stay with them for a lifetime. We wanted them to experience the joy of planting seeds, caring for animals, using real tools, creating with their hands, solving problems, and learning through meaningful experiences in nature.
What started as a few summer day camps quickly grew into something much bigger than we ever imagined. We saw the impact these hands-on experiences had on children—their confidence grew, their curiosity was sparked, and they began to see themselves as capable learners and problem solvers. Families began asking for more opportunities, and shortly after launching our summer camps, Project Wild Rooted expanded into a year-round nature-based learning program.
From those first summer days to the program we have today, our mission has remained the same: to provide children with authentic, experiential learning opportunities that help them grow academically, socially, and personally while fostering a deep appreciation for the world around them.
Project Wild Rooted was built on the belief that children are naturally curious, capable, and eager to learn when they are given the space and opportunity to explore. We are grateful for every child and family who has been part of this journey and excited for the many years of learning, growing, and discovering ahead.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the challenges we have encountered along the way is that, as a tuition-based program, not every family who desires this experience for their child is able to enroll. This has been especially difficult for us, because we truly believe that all children deserve access to meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities in nature—regardless of financial circumstances.
Rather than accepting that limitation, we felt called to find a way to create more access for families in our community. This led to the creation of our nonprofit, Friends of Project Wild Rooted. Through this initiative, we are able to raise funds specifically for scholarships, helping bridge the gap and provide opportunities for children who may not otherwise be able to participate.
This has become one of the most meaningful parts of our work. Being able to offer scholarships and extend these experiences to more children is something we are incredibly proud of. It reflects our heart not just for education, but for community—ensuring that more children have the chance to grow in confidence, develop new skills, and connect with the world around them.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our Farm to Table event is something we are incredibly passionate about because it brings together so many of the things we value most: community, local agriculture, meaningful connections, and creating opportunities for children.
This event began as a way to celebrate the incredible farmers, and makers in our community while sharing a meal that tells a story—from the hands that planted the seeds, cared for the animals, and grew the ingredients, to the families and friends gathered around the table enjoying the final creation while raising funds for scholarship.
Beyond the beautiful evening itself, the Farm to Table event directly supports our mission at Project Wild Rooted. Every ticket purchased helps sustain local food systems, supports small farms, and provides opportunities for children to participate in our programs through scholarships. We believe every child deserves the chance to experience hands-on learning, connect with nature, and discover their own confidence and curiosity, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.
The event is a reminder of what can happen when a community comes together with a shared purpose. It allows us to celebrate where our food comes from, honor the people who make our community stronger, and continue creating meaningful educational experiences for children.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Join us for this year’s Farm to Table event on Saturday, September 26th at Little Lake Barn, just outside of Center City.
Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a thoughtfully prepared three-course meal made with locally sourced ingredients, a silent auction, and a meat raffle highlighting three local farmers. Sip on locally crafted wine from Winhaven as you gather, connect, and celebrate community.
We would love to have you there. Tickets are available now on our website.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.projectwildrooted.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectwildrooted?igsh=eDJhdWltbWd3cnBp&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1D5VvD3EPi/?mibextid=wwXIfr
