Community Agreement

Updated October 7, 2025

Rooted Allies is a small-group experience built on mutual respect, presence, and care. We are here to practice health self-advocacy and reflection, together. Whether you’re joining a Grove or helping guide the experience, this agreement outlines what we each commit to in this shared space.

These aren’t rules. They’re shared commitments between participants, guides, and Rooted Allies as an organization.

What Participants Agree To

• Protect each other’s privacy. What’s said in the group stays in the group. Participants don’t share anyone else’s story, words, or personal details outside the Grove space. Not in conversation, online, or anywhere else.
  
• Show up fully and respectfully. Arrive on time, keep cameras on when possible, and stay present during sessions. Listen as much as you speak, and respect each other’s pace and needs.
  
• Honor difference. Everyone in Rooted Allies is navigating their own health and life experience. Don’t assume, diagnose, or fix. Speak from your own experience and let others do the same.
  
• Care for ourselves and each other. You’re not expected to share anything you’re not ready to. You are encouraged to set boundaries and stay grounded. The group is here to support that, not challenge it.
  
• Keep the space human, not performative. This isn’t about getting it “right.” There’s no gold star for perfect participation. We’re practicing being honest, connected, and real — not polished.
  
• Repair if harm happens. If something lands wrong, commit to talking about it. The guide will hold space for repair if needed. You’re not trying to be flawless, but you are trying to be accountable.

What Rooted Allies (and Its Guides) Agree To

• Hold the space with care and consistency. Guides commit to showing up prepared, present, and grounded. We create an environment that supports participation, reflection, and mutual respect.
  
• Protect confidentiality. Rooted Allies and its guides will not share personal participant information, discussions, or materials outside the group setting. If safety concerns arise, we’ll handle them with care and discretion.
  
• Maintain integrity and boundaries. We don’t give medical advice, diagnose, or prescribe. We honor the limits of our role as facilitators and peers, not clinicians.
  
• Listen and respond when concerns arise. If harm, discomfort, or confusion occurs, Rooted Allies will address it with empathy, openness, and a commitment to learning.
  
• Evolve with feedback. This program, and this agreement, will continue to grow based on what we learn together. Participant input matters.