About Rootz of Power
Rooted in Health. Growing in Equity.
Rootz of Power is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing healthcare literacy, equitable, access, and community empowerment. We believe knowledge is the foundation of self-advocacy, and self-advocacy is the pathway to power. Through education-first programming and medically necessary support initiatives, Rootz of Power equips individuals and families with the tools to navigate healthcare systems with confidence, clarity, and dignit
Our Approach
- Education first (Power to the Patient)
- Support when medically necessary
- Specialized education and financial assistance (GenPower, EmPowerHer, SmilePower) based on funding availability
- Community partnerships
Our Mission, Vision & Values
Rootz of Power is guided by a clear mission, a forward-looking vision, and values rooted in equity and integrity.
Mision
Rootz of Power exists to empower individuals and families through healthcare education, advocacy tools, and equitable access to medically necessary support. We believe knowledge is the foundation of self-advocacy, and informed advocacy leads to lasting change.
Vision
We envision a future where every person - regardless of background, diagnosis, or socioeconomic status - understands their body, knows their rights, and has access to the care they deserve with dignity and confidence.
Values
- Equity & Access
- Education as Empowerment
- Dignity & Accountability
- Transparency & Accountability
- Community Collaboration
- Resilience & Advocacy
Meet the Founder
Leadership rooted in lived experience, advocacy, and purpose
Latonya Jackson
Founder & Author, Rootz of Power
Latonya S. Jackson
Author. Advocate. Founder.
Latonya S. Jackson founded Rootz of Power from lived experience and a deep conviction that no one should feel dismissed, unheard, or unprepared in their healthcare journey.
Her work began long before the nonprofit. It began with personal navigation through complex medical challenges — learning how to ask better questions, document symptoms, understand insurance systems, and advocate for appropriate care. What started as survival became structure.
Latonya authored Down 2 da Rootz: A Journey to Health, Self-Advocacy, and Empowerment as both a memoir and a guide. The book became the blueprint for Rootz of Power — transforming personal lessons into a replicable model centered on health literacy, empowerment, and equitable access.
She is a member of P.O.W.E.R. Women of Empowerment, reflecting her commitment to principled leadership, collaboration, and community-centered solutions.
Today, Latonya leads Rootz of Power with clarity of purpose: to strengthen self-advocacy first, then expand access to care resources as funding allows.
The Book That Sparked It All
Where the mission began - and the blueprint was written.
Down 2 da Rootz
By Latonya S. Jackson
'Down 2 da Rootz: A Journey of Health, Self-Advocacy, and Empowerment'
is the foundation of the Rootz of Power mission.
Education is the first step toward empowerment
The book became the blueprint.
The blueprint became the mission.
The evolution of Rootz of Power
From lived experience to structured community impact
The Evolution of Rootz of Power
Phase 1
Awarness
Recognizing the Gap
We begin by identifying systemic gaps in healthcare literacy, access, and patient empowerment. Many individuals face barriers not because care is unavailable, but because the system is complex, communication is limited, and patients are not equipped with the tools to navigate it.
This phase introduces the need for education-centered solutions that build foundational awareness and understanding.Phase 2
Authorship
Owning the Story. Building the Voice.
Grounded in Down 2 da Rootz, participants transform their health experiences into informed advocacy.
Outcome: from passive recipients to active voices in their care.
Phase 3
Formation
Building the Foundation
Establishing Rootz of Power as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with structured programming and a sustainable, mission-driven framework.
Phase 4
Impact
Expanding Access & Equity
Delivering education, navigation, and needs-based support to improve healthcare access and outcomes.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The Meaning Behind the Name
Why Rootz of Power
“Rootz” represents the foundation beneath the surface—the unseen support system that sustains growth and stability. Just as roots anchor a tree, knowledge anchors empowerment, giving individuals the strength to stand, speak, and advocate for their care.
We have made a significant impact in our community through our non-profit organization. By providing services and support to those in need, we have created a positive change. Our efforts have helped to improve the lives of many and we are committed to continuing to make a difference.
We have made a significant impact in our community through our non-profit organization. By providing services and support to those in need, we have created a positive change. Our efforts have helped to improve the lives of many and we are committed to continuing to make a difference.
Join the movement
Rootz of Power invites partners, supporters, and community members to be part of a growing movement centered on education, dignity, and equitable access to care.