Roots & Wings

Roots & Wings

The JoLynn Way

Squirrel Squad

Nurturing the next generation of compassionate leaders and community helpers.

Building Tomorrow's Leaders

Squirrel Squad is our youth program that teaches children and teenagers the values JoLynn held dear: compassion, service, and community connection. Like busy squirrels preparing for winter, our young participants learn to gather skills, knowledge, and experiences that will serve them throughout their lives.

Through hands-on volunteer opportunities, character development activities, and environmental education, we help young people discover the joy of giving back while building confidence and leadership skills.

Children in Squirrel Squad program

Age Groups

Our programs are tailored to different developmental stages, ensuring age-appropriate activities and learning.

Little Acorns

Ages 5-8

  • • Simple acts of kindness
  • • Nature exploration
  • • Story time with moral lessons
  • • Basic community helpers
  • • Art and craft projects

Growing Nuts

Ages 9-12

  • • Community service projects
  • • Environmental stewardship
  • • Leadership skill building
  • • Peer mentoring
  • • Problem-solving activities

Mighty Oaks

Ages 13-17

  • • Advanced volunteer opportunities
  • • Social justice education
  • • Youth advocacy training
  • • Mentoring younger children
  • • Community organizing

What We Do

Our activities are designed to be fun, educational, and meaningful for young participants.

Community Service

Food drives, elderly visits, park cleanups, and helping local families in need.

Environmental Projects

Tree planting, recycling programs, wildlife habitat creation, and sustainability education.

Leadership Development

Team building, public speaking, project planning, and conflict resolution skills.

Character Building

Empathy exercises, gratitude practices, integrity discussions, and kindness challenges.

Young Leaders in Action

See how our Squirrel Squad members are making a difference in their communities.

"My daughter Emma has been in Squirrel Squad for two years now. The change in her confidence and compassion has been incredible. She organized a toy drive at her school and raised over 200 toys for children in need. She says she wants to help people just like JoLynn did."
- Sarah M., Parent of Emma (age 10)
"Being in Squirrel Squad taught me that even kids can make a big difference. Our group started a community garden that now feeds 15 families every week. I learned that helping others makes me feel really good inside, and I want to keep doing it forever."
- Marcus T., Squirrel Squad Member (age 12)

When We Meet

Squirrel Squad meets regularly throughout the school year with special summer programs.

Regular Meetings

When:Saturdays, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Frequency:Twice per month
Location:Community Center
Cost:Free for all participants

Summer Camp

When:June-August
Duration:2-week sessions
Time:9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Includes:Lunch & snacks provided

Join the Squad!

Help your child develop compassion, leadership skills, and a lifelong love of helping others.

All programs are free. Transportation assistance available for families in need.