​Join us for a day of connection, giving back, and exploring nature!

​The Forest Preserves of Cook County and the Jane Goodall Institute's Roots & Shoots Chicago Basecamp invite youth, families, and community members of all ages to a special celebration honoring the life, impact, and birthday of Dr. Jane Goodall. Together, we’ll explore nature and celebrate the power of young people to make a difference. Activities include our Youth Changemakers Panel (details below!), nature walks, a film, seed ball making, s'mores, and more!

​NOTE: If you are a minor attending without legal parent/guardian, you are required to complete this form.

​What to expect

• ​This event is outdoors and indoors - please dress accordingly

• ​Restrooms are available

• ​Free parking

• ​Some trails are unpaved - please wear secure footwear with traction

• ​Food: Light refreshments, hot dogs, and s'mores

• ​See Agenda below for activity details

• ​Learn about Camp Shabbona Woods

​If you have a specific accommodation need for this event, please reach out to Roots and Shoots Chicago Basecamp member Abby Accettura at [email protected].

​Youth Changemakers Panel

​If you’re a middle or high school student, you’re invited to join our Youth Changemakers Panel: a chance for young changemakers to shine! Participants will receive a free Roots & shoots t-shirt!

​Whether you’re working on a conservation project, helping your community through volunteering, or simply have an idea (or need inspiration!) to make Chicagoland better for all living things, we want to hear from you.

​Our Panel Host will guide you through a quick 15‑minute prep session, then you and other youth participants will take turns sharing your ideas and work in a short interview‑style conversation. Afterward, you’ll have time to connect, collaborate, and explore shared goals with peers and community members.

​The panel will take place 5–6:30 PM.

​If you’d like to participate, please select the 'Youth Changemaker Panel' ticket when you register and complete all the registration questions!

​Agenda

​Anytime— Litter Pickup
Borrow our supplies (or bring your own) and help tidy up the nature center!

​4:00–6:30 — Seed Ball Making
Create wildflower seed balls to support pollinators in our community.

​4:30, 5:15, 6:00, 6:30 — Film Screenings
A short film about Dr. Jane Goodall and Roots & Shoots.

​5:00–6:30 — Youth Changemakers Panel
See description above. Participants will receive a free Roots & Shoots t-shirt! NOTE: If you are a minor attending without legal parent/guardian, you are required to complete this form.

​4:30 & 6:00— Birding & Nature Walks
Participate in a guided relaxing nature walk

​7:00–8:00 — S’mores by the Fire
End the night with community, warmth, and yummy treats!

​Roots & Shoots is a global youth-powered movement founded by Dr. Jane Goodall. It’s all about inspiring young people to take action in their communities to help people, other animals, and the environment. No matter how big or small, every project creates positive change! Through service projects, we learn to be compassionate changemakers, listen to our communities, and work together to build a better world.